Buffalo Bills Running Back Damien Harris Released from Hospital After Neck Injury
By Alaina Getzenberg, ESPN
Oct 16, 2023, 12:56 PM ET
Buffalo Bills running back Damien Harris has been released from a Buffalo-area hospital and is expected to be fine after suffering a neck injury during Sunday night’s game against the New York Giants, according to a source close to the situation.
Harris was taken off the field in an ambulance and transported to the hospital following the injury. However, Coach Sean McDermott provided an update, stating that Harris has full movement in his body and his scans have been positive so far.
“So, things are heading in a good direction right now for Damien,” McDermott said following Buffalo’s 14-9 win.
The incident occurred in the second quarter when Harris was rushing the football on third-and-1 from the Buffalo 34-yard-line. He took a hit to the neck area from Giants linebacker Bobby Okereke after colliding with Bills right guard O’Cyrus Torrence. Despite the impact, Harris attempted to continue running before being brought down by Okereke.
Medical personnel and Bills athletic trainers immediately attended to Harris, who remained on the field for several minutes. The entire Bills sideline gathered around him to show support. Left tackle Dion Dawkins revealed that he ensured Harris was breathing before stepping away to allow medical professionals to provide care.
As Harris was loaded into the ambulance, he gave a thumbs-up sign with his left hand, indicating some level of reassurance.
The news of Harris’ release from the hospital comes as a relief to both the player and the team. Neck injuries can be serious and potentially career-threatening, so the fact that Harris is expected to make a full recovery is excellent news for everyone involved.
Harris, a key player for the Bills, has been an integral part of their offense this season. His ability to run the football effectively and contribute in the passing game has been crucial to Buffalo’s success. Losing him for an extended period would have been a significant blow to the team’s aspirations.
The Bills organization and fans can now breathe a sigh of relief knowing that Harris is on the road to recovery. While the exact timeline for his return to the field is uncertain, the fact that he has avoided any major long-term damage is a positive sign.
Injuries are an unfortunate part of professional sports, and the NFL is no exception. However, it is always heartening to see players receive prompt medical attention and make progress towards recovery. The support shown by Harris’ teammates and coaches on the sideline demonstrates the tight-knit nature of the Bills organization and their commitment to each other’s well-being.
As the Bills continue their season, they will need to adjust their game plan in Harris’ absence. The team’s depth at the running back position will be tested, and other players will need to step up to fill the void. McDermott and his coaching staff will undoubtedly devise a strategy to maximize the talents of their remaining running backs and ensure that the offense remains potent.
The focus now shifts to Harris’ rehabilitation and recovery process. The Bills’ medical staff will work closely with him to ensure that he receives the best possible care and support during this time. It is essential for Harris to take the necessary time to heal fully before returning to action, as rushing back too soon could lead to further complications.
In the meantime, Bills fans can take solace in the fact that their star running back is in good hands and on the path to recovery. The team will rally around Harris and continue to strive for success in his absence.
Damien Harris’ injury serves as a reminder of the physical toll that football can take on its players. It highlights the importance of player safety and the need for ongoing efforts to improve equipment, training techniques, and medical protocols.
As the NFL moves forward, it is crucial to prioritize the well-being of its athletes and ensure that they receive the necessary support and resources to recover from injuries. The league must continue to invest in research and development to minimize the risk of serious injuries and provide players with the best possible care.
In the case of Damien Harris, the initial prognosis is positive, and the focus now shifts to his recovery. Bills fans will eagerly await his return to the field, knowing that he will be back stronger than ever.
Alaina Getzenberg is a staff writer who covers the Buffalo Bills and the NFL. She joined ESPN in 2021. Alaina was previously a beat reporter for the Charlotte Observer and has also worked for CBS Sports and the Dallas Morning News. She is a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley. You can follow her via Twitter @agetzenberg.