NFL players past and present, including Mahomes and Kelly, react to Hamlin injury

Damar Hamlin's injury overshadowed everything today, as several players - from Patrick Mahomes to Jim Kelly - sent messages of support to him and his family. Despite the bitter rivalries and the playoffs coming into closer focus, the shock of the moment united everyone across football and the wider world.

The depth of concern was not hard to miss on this very difficult evening for everyone. Players from across the spectrum joined hands to pray for him. And Twitter was a reflection of the wider reaction that was seen in the field, as players and coaches united to pray for him.

It was distressing to see, and all the fans can do is join in the prayers seen below:

The NFLPA released a statement on behalf of all players as well saying that everyone was praying for Damar Hamill. They also confirmed that they have been in touch with players from both the Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals.

The Buffalo Bills showcased the solidarity from across the football world by posting on their official account. Despite all the differences and competitiveness, this incident has seemingly united everyone.

Ryan Shazier posts poignant tribute to Damar Hamlin

Perhaps the most poignant tribute to Damar Hamlin came from Ryan Shazier. He simply tweeted saying he was praying for the stricken player.

What made it particularly touching, however, was the injury he has had himself playing the game of football. Shazier was playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers when he suffered a spinal injury on the field.

Coincidentally, that injury also took place against the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday Night Football, back in 2017.

Shazier could not feel his legs after a play and it was found he had suffered a spinal contusion. He was left a paraplegic and had to learn how to walk again. Many fans were reminded of his injury as they saw the troubles suffered by Damar Hamlin today.

Damar Hamlin in the thoughts of people from outside the NFL world

The reaction of the players showed the depth of emotion, and it was telling. Even people from outside the football world, like the Governor of New York, tweeted their prayers.

People from other sports and other industries also came streaming in with their reactions. There are too many such posts to cover right now, but it hit home the seriousness of the issue.

Tonight was a reminder that there is something more important than football. All that matters right now is Damar Hamlin's health.