EXCLUSIVE: Former Falcons HC Mike Smith reflects on traumatic Damar Hamlin collapse

Damar Hamlin's dramatic collapse continues to lead the news as the entire NFL and wider world prays for his speedy recovery. It has left a profound impact on football as a whole, with former players and coaches chiming in with their well wishes.

Perhaps one person best positioned to offer his insight is former Falcons coach Mike Smith. As a steeped-in-football family man, he could see pause to reflect on the human and football impact of this tragedy.

Speaking exclusively to Sportskeeda's "The BallFather Podcast," he offered insight about the situation:

"It was a very difficult situation. Anytime you see one of your players collapse on the field, it's got to be not only scary for you as the head coach, but for your team."

He was empathetic to the situation and could not help but highlight the effect it had in real time on the organizations playing. However, he also praised their reactions, reserving special mention for the players and coaches who were involved in the immediate decision-making after Damar Hamlin's injury.

"It was a very scary moment," Smith said. "I was watching it in real time last night. And seeing, you know, the things play out, it was it was a very, very, very scary moment. Specifically for the players. I do think that the coaches did a wonderful job in handling it.

"You could tell that they were involved in the process and the decisions that were being made through the league office."

He ended by saying that the most important thing is Hamlin's health and safety. He evoked being a parent in this situation and what must be going through their minds as their son struggles.

"The most important thing is the health and safety of Damar," Smith said. "I can't imagine being a mom or dad and having to go through what they've gone through. And we just hope and pray – and I know millions are hoping and praying – that tomorrow he will come through."

Damar Hamlin's family a source of strength for him

Throughout this harrowing ordeal, one good thing that has come out of it is that we have come to know Damar Hamlin as someone who goes so much beyond football. His connection to his family has been a perpetual strength.

His draft day video, showing him surrounded by his family and eschewing the traditional glitz and glamor, showed where his heart really is. They continue to be a pillar in his ultimate struggle today.

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