After Buffalo scored a touchdown early in the first quarter of their home game versus the Indianapolis Colts, Hamlin came on the field to join the kickoff team and later played on defence where he made an immediate impact.

On his second defensive snap, Hamlin was credited with a solo tackle of running back Evan Hull for no gain, denying the Colts from converting a fourth-and-one at the Bill's 40-yard line. Hamlin then made tackles on two consecutive plays during the Bills' next defensive series.

Prior to the game, the NFL posted on social media saying "Welcome back, @HamlinIsland" along with a video that showed Hamlin arriving at the team's stadium and flashing a heart-shaped gesture with his hands.

Hamlin collapsed during a January 2nd game against the Cincinnati Bengals moments after making a tackle and was resuscitated on the field, all in front of a packed stadium and national television audience.

He was discharged from hospital nine days after his cardiac arrest, and his remarkable recovery captivated the sporting world.