Damar Hamlin return to the football field for first padded practice

BUFFALO, N.Y. (NBC, KYMA/KECY) - Buffalo Bills Safety Damar Hamlin took another step in his return to football Monday.

Hamlin participated in his first padded practice with the Bills during training camp. The practice session was zero-contact, but still was a big and necessary step in Hamlin's recovery.

It served as the first time hamlin suited up in pads since January 2, the night he suffered cardiac arrest in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Hamlin acknowledged the significance of his return and got through the practice with no obvious limitations.

"It felt good. It was just that moment of just like alright, let's just settle in and take it one play at a time. Let's just keep going," Hamlin declared.

The Bills will take the field for the first preseason game on Saturday, August 12, when the Indianapolis Colts go to Buffalo.