‘Just knowing he’s OK, makes me feel better;’ Bengals’ Tee Higgins speaks after Damar Hamlin update

The Bills safety remains in critical condition at University of Cincinnati Medical Center and doctors said Hamlin is awake and his neurological function is intact, during a news conference Thursday.

Hamlin has also been able to hold and grip his family’s hands and communicate with doctors through writing.

>>Photos: Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapses, receives CPR on field

Higgins spoke with Hamlin’s mother Thursday, WCPO said.

“She’s telling me that she’s thinking of me, praying for me and things like that ... telling me that he’s OK, just all the good, positive stuff,” Higgins said. “Just knowing that he’s OK, he’s doing better, makes me feel better inside.”

Hamlin’s family said Higgins has been contact with them since the Bills safety went to the hospital Monday night.

“Obviously it’s been hard, just because I had something to do with the play ... but everybody’s been making me feel whole again,” Higgins said.

>>AP: NFL reportedly won’t resume Bills-Bengals game from Monday night

His teammate Tyler Boyd said getting a positive update helped clear his worries so he could be ready for Sunday’s game against the Ravens, WCPO reports.

“I think I’ll be pretty fine now that he’s OK and he’s responsive ... that relieved me from everything,” Boyd said.

He said he will continue to pray for Hamlin.

>>PHOTOS: Community holds vigil outside hospital for Damar Hamlin

The NFL announced Thursday it will not resume the Bengals-Bills game, the associated press said Thursday.

The Bengals now look toward their Week 18 matchup with the Baltimore Ravens.

Kickoff is at 1 p.m. Sunday afternoon and the game will be televised on Channel 7.