Damar Hamlin was on the field for second down with just under six and a half minutes left in the first quarter on Monday night. Tee Higgins caught a Joe Burrow pass for 13 yards and was brought down by Hamlin at the 48-yard line. Then everything changed.

The 24-year-old Hamlin briefly got up after the play and then collapsed. According to a statement from the Buffalo Bills, Hamlin went into cardiac arrest. Trainers and first responders administered CPR to Hamlin in an effort to save his life as his teammates watched. Hamlin left the field in an ambulance, the game was suspended, and everyone’s thoughts were with a young man whose life hung in the balance. As of this writing, Hamlin is in critical condition at University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

Hamlin is in his second NFL season and has been a key part of the Bills defense since replacing the injured Micah Hyde in Week 2. As he was being assisted by medical personnel, his teammates were visibly upset. The stadium was silent. Following his exit via ambulance, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor approached Bills coach Sean McDermott and the two agreed to suspend the game. The NFL later said the game would not be completed on Monday night.

“Our thoughts are with Damar and the Buffalo Bills. We will provide more information as it becomes available,” the league said in a statement.

For his teammates, coaches, and family, one can barely imagine the agony. For those of us watching, it was a horrifying scene. I’ve been involved with football nearly my entire life, from being a fan, to playing and coaching. What unfolded on Monday night was the worst thing I’ve ever seen on a football field.

Underneath the shoulder pads and helmets are real human beings who have thoughts, feelings, dreams and loved ones. In the thrill of the game and pressure to win, that is often forgotten. Monday night was a chilling reminder. I, and all of us, can only hope that Hamlin makes a full recovery and is able to live a long and happy life.