University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Hamlin Named Finalist for Muhammad Ali Humanitarian of the Year Award
6/30/2026 10:51:00 AM | Football
PITTSBURGH—Former Pitt All-ACC safety Damar Hamlin has been named one of three finalists for the 2026 Muhammad Ali Humanitarian of the Year Award.
Presented annually since 2013, the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian of the Year Award recognizes athletes who embody the late Muhammad Ali's legacy of service by using their platforms to create meaningful change in their communities.
Hamlin has transformed one of the most challenging moments of his life into a mission centered on public health, emergency preparedness and youth empowerment. Following his recovery from cardiac arrest during an NFL game in January 2023, he has become a national advocate for CPR education, automated external defibrillator (AED) accessibility and cardiac emergency preparedness through his Chasing M's Foundation.
Under Hamlin's leadership, the foundation has provided CPR education to millions of people, donated more than $1 million worth of AEDs to schools and youth-serving organizations, and supported legislative efforts that have helped advance cardiac emergency response policies in 29 states.
The foundation has also invested more than $1 million in scholarships, mentorship programs, violence prevention initiatives and grants benefiting children and families. Hamlin's long-term vision is the creation of a Youth Empowerment Center in his hometown of McKees Rocks, Pa., providing a dedicated space where young people and families can learn, grow and thrive.
Hamlin enjoyed one of the most accomplished defensive careers in recent Pitt history from 2016-20. He started 40 games during his career and finished with 290 tackles, five interceptions, 21 pass breakups and 10 tackles for loss.
As a senior in 2020, Hamlin earned second-team All-ACC honors after leading the Panthers with 67 tackles and seven pass breakups while adding two interceptions. Voted a team captain by his teammates, he also received an invitation to the prestigious Reese's Senior Bowl following the season.
Hamlin concluded his Pitt career as one of the ACC's most consistent defensive backs before being selected by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
The winner of the 2026 Muhammad Ali Humanitarian of the Year Award will be announced during the 2026 ESPYS on Wednesday, July 15.
