HBO’s ‘Hard Knocks’ was another reminder of how difficult cutdown day can be with gut-punch of an episode for Bills Mafia
The latest episode of HBO’s “Hard Knocks” was difficult to watch.
The latest episode of HBO’s hit docu-series “Hard Knocks” featuring the Buffalo Bills has come and gone, and let’s be honest, it was more than a little emotional. Just hours before the episode aired, the team had to cut their roster from 90 to 53 players, with multiple standouts no longer with the team. That’s not to say they won’t get added to the practice squad, but the team waived Jimmy Ciarlo and released K.J. Hamler, who were featured heavily during the episode. What should never be lost in all the craziness of the cutdowns is that these are real people, sacrificing so much of themselves to achieve their ultimate dream. For some, they worked their entire life to make a 53-man roster and have finally achieved the dream. For others, they see their career potentially end right as they’ve neared the top of the mountain, sometimes for reasons completely outside of their control.
Hamler gets personal
Hamler’s journey in the NFL has been marked with unfortunate tragedy, but that’s not going to stop him from pursuing his dream. During the latest episode, it went more in-depth with what Hamler has had to overcome throughout his NFL career. Specifically focusing on a scary incident where he needed to drive himself to the hospital and was diagnosed with pericarditis during his rookie year in Denver. Pericarditis is an inflammation of the thin, saclike tissue that surrounds the heart.
The veteran took a break from football to undergo treatment in hopes of getting back on the field as soon as possible. Injuries, unfortunately, continued throughout his career. From hamstring strains to concussions and a pectoral tear, he’s been fighting for years.
During his three seasons in Denver, he appeared in 23 games while starting in six and totaled 42 receptions for 620 yards and three touchdowns. Hamler was mic’d up and gave the world an inside look at his motor, what makes him tick. He’s more than ready for the challenge. Also, who is cutting onions?
“I know I’m here for a reason. God, he didn’t bring me this far for no reason. Two ACLs, torn pec, dislocated hip, and heart problems. You still here, boy. You still here, cuh. Don’t let them tell you nothin different, don’t let them tell you nothin different.
Hamler was already a star after his scooter debacle, a hilarious incident that saw him riding around on a kid’s scooter. He later clarified what went down, and it might have been even funnier.
Ciarlo shines in ‘Hard Knocks’
Then, of course, there was Jimmy Ciarlo. Shoutout to his dad, who hadn’t been on a plane in 30 years but made the trip to Tampa Bay to watch his son play football. Away from his family, living out of a hotel, Ciarlo did everything in his power to earn a roster spot. During the airing, he was seen late at night in the clubhouse watching game film, offering that he had been there until midnight, with staff members asking the linebacker if he was planning on moving in.
Humble and hungry is the name of the game, and Ciarlo has that in abundance. After recovering a fumble, he was quick to offer praise to his teammate instead of focusing on himself. When asked to celebrate in front of the cameras after a turnover, he said, “I didn’t make the hit, though.” While a small gesture, it holds mighty weight.
After only joining the team and trying to learn everything he could in a few weeks, Ciarlo fell short as he was waived during the roster cutdown. However, that doesn’t mean he and Hamler can’t be back on the roster. With Hamler being a vested veteran, he can sign with whatever club will have him. As for Ciarlo, he has to clear waivers before the Bills would be able to add him to their practice squad. Keep your fingers crossed, here’s hoping they’ll be back on the team soon.
Josh Allen (clap).
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