Devin Hester

Devin Hester was born to Juanita Brown and Lenorris Hester Sr. in Riviera Beach, Florida. His parents separated when he was a toddler. Before he became a teenager, his mother was severely injured in a car accident, while his father died of complications from AIDS two years later.{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/bears/2007-01-30-hester-cover_x.htm|title=Big returns on Bears' investment|access-date=April 29, 2007|author=Tom Pedulla|date=January 31, 2007|newspaper=USA Today}}{{cite news|url=https://youtube.com/watch?v=gtTuL5NpENY&t=1126|title=Devin Hester Reveals His Truth|access-date=November 14, 2023|author=The Pivot Podcast|date=November 14, 2023}} His step-father, Derrick Brown, and brother, Lenorris Jr., helped Hester escape his depression and rebuild his life by introducing him to football. He soon returned to his normal life and began to excel in sports.{{Cite web |last=Haugh |first=David |date=2006-09-17 |title=Pilot episode is prime-time |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2006-09-17-0609170173-story.html |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=Chicago Tribune}}

During his youth, Hester enjoyed following the Dallas Cowboys. He especially idolized Deion Sanders, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin. He was also a fan of the Chicago Bulls during the Michael Jordan and Phil Jackson era.{{cite news|url=http://www.scout.com/player/173737-brett-rypien?year=2014&s=336|newspaper=Chicago Tribune|title=Q&A: Devin Hester|access-date=December 18, 2006}} Fred Taylor of the University of Florida was Hester's favorite athlete. In addition to football, he also enjoyed playing soccer and following baseball.

Hester attended first Palm Beach Gardens High, then on to Suncoast High School, where he played football as a cornerback, wide receiver, return specialist, and running back. He earned recognition from SuperPrep.com as the top high school prospect in Florida and Parade, who named Hester onto their All-American team. Hester also participated in the 2002 CaliFlorida Bowl, where he returned a kick for an 80-yard touchdown.University of Miami Athletics, [http://hurricanesports.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/hester_devin00.html Player Bio:Devin Hester::Football] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061216162025/http://hurricanesports.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/hester_devin00.html |date=December 16, 2006 }} Retrieved on December 18, 2006Rivals.com, [http://rivals100.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=880&CID=72743 CaliFlorida Bowl: Final Comments] Retrieved on March 20, 2007 His success prompted his teammates to nickname him "Sugar Foot".Sports Illustrated, December 3, 2007 issue.

Considered a five-star recruit by Rivals.com, Hester was listed as the second best cornerback in the nation in 2002.{{cite web | title=Devin Hester | url=https://sports.yahoo.com/footballrecruiting/football/recruiting/player-Devin-Hester-582;_ylt=Ag6iUy1vl7YNOUbV2uU4EWpGPZB4|department=Rivals.com | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114223337/http://sports.yahoo.com/footballrecruiting/football/recruiting/player-Devin-Hester-582 | archive-date=January 14, 2016 | url-status=dead | website=sports.yahoo.com}}

Hester was also a standout track athlete. While at Suncoast, he received All-America accolades, and he ranked second nationally in the long jump as a junior.{{cite news |url=http://www.chicagobears.com/team/roster/devin-hester/881cf23d-cf53-47e2-832c-5c462933834c/ |title=PLAYER BIO - DEVIN HESTER |work=chicagobears.com |date=2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831131315/http://www.chicagobears.com/team/roster/devin-hester/881cf23d-cf53-47e2-832c-5c462933834c/ |archive-date=August 31, 2012 |access-date=May 19, 2016 }} He also captured the 2004 Big EAST Indoor long jump title as a member of the University of Miami track and field team, with a leap of 7.37 meters. He also competed in the 60 meters and 100 meters, posting personal bests of 6.77 seconds and 10.62, 10.42W seconds, respectively.All-Athletics, [http://www.all-athletics.com/node/87038 Profile of Devin Hester] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131005000219/http://www.all-athletics.com/node/87038 |date=October 5, 2013 }}, Retrieved on Mary 19, 2016.

After completing high school, Hester enrolled at the University of Miami, where he played for the Miami Hurricanes football team from 2003 to 2005. As a sophomore in 2004, he earned national recognition as a kick returner after being named a first-team All-American by the Walter Camp Football Foundation and The Sporting News. His ability to thrust laterally and break away from pursuers made him one of the nation's most dangerous return specialists. During his freshman year, Hester returned an opening kick for a 98-yard touchdown against the Florida Gators. In a game against Duke in 2005, Hester broke six tackles while returning an 81-yard punt.{{Cite web |date=October 8, 2005|agency=Associated Press |title=Wright throws for 255 yards, three TDs as 'Canes roll |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap/_/gameId/252812390 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231105143718/https://www.espn.com/college-football/recap/_/gameId/252812390 |url-status=dead |archive-date=November 5, 2023 |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} Ultimately, Hester completed his college career with a total of six touchdowns from kick returns (4 punts, 2 kickoffs), one blocked field goal return, one rushing touchdown, one receiving touchdown and recorded five interceptions as a defensive back.

Hester became the first football player in the Miami Hurricanes' recent history to play as member of the special, offensive, and defensive teams.Black Sports Network, [http://www.blacksportsnetwork.com/articles/qa/hester_090305.asp College Football: Devin] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070311141100/http://www.blacksportsnetwork.com/articles/qa/hester_090305.asp |date=March 11, 2007 }} Retrieved on November 17, 2006 He was known as "Hurricane Hester" by his fans and teammates. In his junior season, Hester returned 19 punts for 326 yards and three touchdowns, along with 15 kickoffs for 389 yards and a score, while also intercepting four passes. During his productive tenure at the University of Miami, Hester befriended Deion Sanders through Ed Reed, an alumnus of the University of Miami, and friend of Sanders. Sanders counseled, advised, and encouraged Hester. Hester was also known as "Anytime" in college, which is a tribute to Sanders' nickname, "Prime Time". He also adopted Sanders' signature touchdown dance, and showboating maneuvers, which he carried to his future NFL career.

Hester finished his three seasons with 41 punt returns for 638 yards, 40 kick returns for 1,019 yards, 24 carries for 160 yards, 10 receptions for 196 yards, 11 tackles, 1 sack, and five interceptions for 57 return yards.

{{NFL predraft

| height ft = 5

| height in = 10 5/8

| weight = 190

| dash = 4.43

| ten split = 1.53

| twenty split = 2.61

| shuttle = 4.20*

| cone drill = 6.78*

| vertical = 38

| broad ft = 10

| broad in = 4

| bench = 16

| wonderlic =

| arm span = 31 1/8

| hand span = 9

| note = All values from NFL Combine/*Pro Day{{Cite web |url=https://www.nfl.com/prospects/devin-hester/32004845-5326-7217-5be3-c3a4e29a2917 |title=Devin Hester Draft and Combine Prospect Profile |website=NFL.com |access-date=December 20, 2024}}{{Cite web |url=https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=11017&DraftYear=2006 |title=Devin Hester, Miami (FL), WR, 2006 NFL Draft Scout, NCAA College Football |website=draftscout.com |access-date=September 26, 2013}}{{Cite web |url=https://nflcombineresults.com/playerpage.php?i=7394 |title=Devin Hester, Combine Results, WR - Miami (FL) |website=nflcombineresults.com |access-date=December 3, 2021}}

}}

Hester began his professional career in the National Football League with the Chicago Bears, who selected him in the second round of the 2006 NFL draft with the 57th overall pick.{{Cite web |title=2006 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2006/draft.htm |access-date=2023-05-09 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The team originally drafted Hester as a cornerback, but they intended to play him as a return specialist, following the retirement of Jerry Azumah and departure of Bobby Wade.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4427 Free-agent splashes often leave NFL teams all wet] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080406132631/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4427 |date=April 6, 2008 }}, Retrieved on March 5, 2008. The team's decision to draft Hester was initially criticized by fans and sports analysts, who believed the Bears should have spent their early picks on offensive prospects.ChicagoSports.com, [http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/askthewriter/cs-061116askdavidhaugh,1,6118076.story?page=2&coll=cs-bears-headlines Ask David Haugh], Retrieved on February 5, 2008.

In his first 13 weeks as a professional football player, Hester recorded six return touchdowns, including a punt return in his NFL debut, and a then-record tying 108-yard touchdown from a missed field goal against the New York Giants.ESPN, [https://web.archive.org/web/20121026063626/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=261112019 Hester's record return pushes Bears past sleeping Giants] Retrieved on March 3, 2007 He also returned a punt for a clutch 83-yard game-winning touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals to give the Bears the lead in a comeback win, and two kickoff returns in one game against the St. Louis Rams.RightWingNutHouse.com, [http://rightwingnuthouse.com/archives/2006/10/16/phoenix-rising/ PHOENIX RISING] Retrieved on December 18, 2006ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2667 Hester's electrifying return twice as nice for Bears] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080115203549/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2667 |date=January 15, 2008 }} Retrieved on December 18, 2006 Following his record-breaking game during week 14, opposing teams exercised additional caution when allowing Hester to return kicks.SuperBowl.com, [http://www.superbowl.com/news/story/9968501 Hester is Chicago's not-so-secret weapon] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070208230529/http://www.superbowl.com/news/story/9968501 |date=February 8, 2007 }} Retrieved on February 28, 2007 During the postseason, Hester ran back a punt at a critical moment against the Seattle Seahawks, but it was called back on a blocking penalty. Regardless, the Bears won both NFC playoffs rounds, and advanced to Super Bowl XLI to play the Indianapolis Colts. He started the game for the Bears by returning the game's opening kick for a touchdown.UsaToday.com, [https://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/bears/2007-02-05-hester_x.htm Smashing entrance by Bears' Hester at Super Bowl XLI] Retrieved on March 20, 2007 The feat was the first touchdown return of an opening kickoff in Super Bowl history and still remains as the only one in Super Bowl history. It also marked the quickest touchdown scored in Super Bowl history as well as the quickest lead ever taken by any team, though the latter record has since been surpassed by the Seahawks in Super Bowl XLVIII.{{cite web|last=Mayer|first=Larry|url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/chalk-talk/article-1/What-is-quickest-Super-Bowl-score/d408125b-2c52-41ee-9199-d1f24c8e23ec|title=What is quickest Super Bowl score?|publisher=Chicago Bears|date=February 6, 2014|access-date=February 6, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222225736/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/chalk-talk/article-1/What-is-quickest-Super-Bowl-score/d408125b-2c52-41ee-9199-d1f24c8e23ec|archive-date=February 22, 2014|url-status=dead}} Following the kick, the Colts did not kick the ball directly to Hester, significantly limiting the Bears' return efforts as they would lose 17–29.Yahoo! Sports, [https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20070204003 Indianapolis 29, Chicago 17] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140104215229/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20070204003 |date=January 4, 2014 }} Retrieved on February 5, 2007

Hester's feats in 2006 earned him three NFC Special Teams Player of the Week AwardsChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2796 Hester wins second straight player of week award] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070926220718/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2796 |date=September 26, 2007 }} Retrieved on December 18, 2006

and a trip to the 2007 Pro Bowl.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2825 Hester among seven Bears voted to Pro Bowl] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091026213514/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2825 |date=October 26, 2009 }} Retrieved on January 19, 2007 After the 2006 season ended, he was named the NFC Player of the Month for December and was a finalist for 2006 Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Year.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2887 Hester named player of month for December] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070107024548/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?STORY_ID=2887 |date=January 7, 2007 }} Retrieved on January 4, 2007 He was also voted onto the Associated Press's 2006 All-Pro team with 48 and a half votes, finishing fourth behind LaDainian Tomlinson, Champ Bailey, and Jason Taylor who all received 50 votes.Yahoo! Sports, [https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AqMbR3et8MEKS6ALAZcsdTlDubYF?slug=ap-nflall-proteam&prov=ap&type=lgns Tomlinson, Taylor and Bailey unanimous All-Pros]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} Retrieved on January 8, 2007 He finished the 2006 season by accumulating three touchdowns for 600 yards on 47 punt returns, and two touchdowns for 528 yards on 20 kick returns, thus making him one of the league's most productive kick and punt returners.ESPN, [https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/stats/_/id/9643/devin-hester ESPN.com – NFL – Devin Hester] Retrieved on January 16, 2007 Even without taking an offensive snap prior to week 14, Hester was the Bears' second leading scorer, behind kicker Robbie Gould. On the other hand, Hester struggled to control the football at times, having games with multiple fumbles on at least two separate occasions.SuburbanChicagoNews.com, [http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/couriernews/sports/176684,3_2_EL18_BEARSNOTES_S1.article Offensive Hester a downer] Retrieved on January 16, 2007Chicago Tribune, [http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sports/columnists/cs-061105isaacson,1,7180508.column?page=2&coll=cs-columnists Precision drill team] Retrieved on January 16, 2007

Many fans speculated that Hester's speed and prior experience as a wide receiver would earn him a spot on the Bears' offense, similar to teammate Rashied Davis. While head coach Lovie Smith dismissed the speculation, he played Hester as a wide receiver for one play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on December 17, 2006; he ran a curl route and was targeted by quarterback Rex Grossman, but the pass was too low and fell incomplete.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2802 Bears have no plans to play Hester on offense] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061216032612/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2802 |date=December 16, 2006 }} Retrieved on December 17, 2006Yahoo! Sports, [https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap;_ylt=AnuxlslG45rzxSj1KM8N0jdDubYF?gid=20061217003&prov=ap Bears 34, Buccaneers 31, OT] Retrieved on December 17, 2006 {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121109021542/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20061217003&prov=ap|date=November 9, 2012}}{{cite news|last=Pierson|first=Don|url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2006-12-18-0612180203-story.html|title=Bears lack a sense of urgency|newspaper=Chicago Tribune|date=December 18, 2006|access-date=October 16, 2019}} Hester attributes his talent to his mentor, Deion Sanders, who Hester claims helped him perfect his return game. Sanders, a former cornerback and kick returner, compliments Hester after every productive performance. However, Sanders also berated Hester for taunting another player en route to his second touchdown return against the St. Louis Rams.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2806 Electrifying Hester enjoying wild ride with humility] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061216032725/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=2806 |date=December 16, 2006 }} Retrieved on December 18, 2006 His teammates and coaches have also praised Hester. After the 2006 season, he was voted to receive the team's Brian Piccolo Award, which is given to a player who possesses a good character and work ethic.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3344 Kreutz, Hester honored to win Piccolo Awards] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081204074743/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3344 |date=December 4, 2008 }} Retrieved on April 24, 2007 Bears fans and the local media nicknamed Hester the "Windy City Flyer" during his first year in Chicago.ESPN.com, [https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/121653/hester-can-now-strike-fear-in-bears Hester can now strike fear in Bears]. Retrieved on December 19, 2014.

Image:Devin Hester in 2007.jpg in 2007]]

Shortly after losing Super Bowl XLI, Hester and special teams coach Dave Toub spent a significant amount of time working on new return strategies and formations.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3153 Bears will look to counter game of keepaway] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070311211027/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3153 |date=March 11, 2007 }} Retrieved on March 9, 2007 Ultimately, Smith converted Hester into a wide receiver in order to increase the number of opportunities he would receive during a game.ESPN.com, [https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=2870416 Bears to shake things up, move Hester to offense], Retrieved on May 15, 2007. Hester, who originally played as a wide receiver at the University of Miami, was initially hesitant about making the switch to offense, as he wished to follow in the footsteps of Deion Sanders.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3420 Bears moving dynamic Hester to offense] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070605013333/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3420 |date=June 5, 2007 }} Retrieved on May 14, 2007 However, the Bears' coaching staff eventually persuaded Hester to make the transition over the summer. During the 2007 offseason, Hester won the Best Breakthrough Athlete ESPY Award.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/espy2007/|access-date=July 20, 2007|year=2007|title=The Best of the ESPYs|publisher=ESPN Internet Ventures}}

Although NFL rules generally required wide receivers to wear jersey numbers in the 10–19 and 80–89 range, players who later change positions are allowed to keep their previous number, as long as it is not within the 50–79 range for eligible receiver purposes prior to the 2021 NFL season.{{cite news |last=Mayer |first=Larry |url=https://www.chicagobears.com/news/nfl-owners-vote-to-expand-jersey-numbers-rule-changes-2021-season |title=NFL owners vote to expand jersey numbers |work=ChicagoBears.com |date=2021-04-21 |access-date=2021-04-21 }} Hester was allowed to keep number 23, a number normally used for cornerbacks, since it sits outside the 50–79 range. Along with former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Dwight Stone, who wore number 20 during his eight-year stint in Pittsburgh, and Oakland Raiders wide receiver Cliff Branch, Hester was one of three wide receivers to wear a 20s jersey number since the NFL adopted the current uniform numbering system in 1973.AtlantaFalcons.com, [http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/Behind-the-Jersey-Number-Devin-Hester/379475f4-4efe-4a6f-a844-81fb391a486b BEHIND THE JERSEY NUMBER: DEVIN HESTER (October 7, 2014), Retrieved on December 19, 2014.]

Hester returned his first touchdown of the season, a 73-yard punt return, against the Kansas City Chiefs during week 2.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3831 Defense, Hester lead Bears to win] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081204074753/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3831 |date=December 4, 2008 }}, Retrieved on September 15, 2007. He nearly recorded a second touchdown return, but the play was negated by a holding penalty. Hester established himself as a threat on offense, when he caught an 81-yard touchdown pass from Brian Griese against the Minnesota Vikings.Yahoo! Sports, [https://archive.today/20120714182617/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/boxscore;_ylt=AsJmudm6iu1CIel83HXtQDdDubYF?gid=20071014003 Minnesota Vikings/Chicago Bears Box Score Sunday October 14, 2007], Retrieved on October 14, 2007. He also returned a punt for an 89-yard touchdown, though the Bears lost the game. In the weeks to come, many opposing special teams began to kick the ball away from Hester, contributing to, according to Mike Pereira, a 132% increase in kickoffs that went out-of-bounds.Mike Pereira. "Official Review" (January 3, 2008) [TV]. NFL Network Rod Marinelli, the head coach of the Detroit Lions, placed a strong emphasis on kicking the ball away from Hester, saying, "kick the ball into Lake Michigan and make sure it (sinks) to the bottom."Detroit Free Press, [http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071027/SPORTS01/710270347/1009/NEWS07 Lions face special threat in kick returner Devin Hester] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140522143815/http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071027/SPORTS01/710270347/1009/NEWS07 |date=May 22, 2014 }}, Retrieved on January 7, 2008.

Before the Bears' week 12 matchup against the Denver Broncos, Todd Sauerbrun infamously stated that he would kick the ball to Hester.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4114 Sauerbrun says Broncos won't kick away from Hester] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071214041415/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4114 |date=December 14, 2007 }}, Retrieved on December 24, 2007. Hester, who had not returned a kick for a touchdown in almost a month, responded by returning a punt and kickoff for touchdowns.Yahoo! Sports, [https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20071125003 Chicago 37, Denver 34, OT] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071213002356/https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20071125003 |date=December 13, 2007 }}, Retrieved on December 24, 2007. Keith Olbermann, a commentator for NBC Sunday Night Football, awarded Sauerbrun with the dubious "Worst Person in the NFL Award" for kicking the ball to Hester and failing to tackle him.{{cite news |last=Roberts |first=Michael |url=https://www.westword.com/news/the-broncos-todd-sauerbrun-is-the-worst-person-in-the-nfl-5904324 |title=The Broncos' Todd Sauerbrun is the Worst Person in the NFL |work=Westword |date=2007-11-26 |access-date=2021-06-29 }} The two touchdowns gave Hester the most kick returns for touchdowns in the Bears' franchise history. Hester concluded the season with a 64-yard punt return for a touchdown and a 55-yard touchdown reception against the New Orleans Saints.Yahoo! Sports, [https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20071230003 Chicago 33, New Orleans 25] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121018022327/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20071230003 |date=October 18, 2012 }}, Retrieved on January 8, 2008. He was even given the opportunity to throw a pass on a variation of a wide receiver reverse, but he was sacked while motioning to Bernard Berrian.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4248 Free agent-to-be Ayanbadejo focuses on his future] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080105035004/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4248 |date=January 5, 2008 }}, Retrieved on January 7, 2008.

Hester finished the season with six kicks returned for touchdowns, which set a league record.RealFootball365, [http://www.realfootball365.com/nfl/articles/20814.html Hester sets NFL record with sixth return touchdown] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080103161510/http://www.realfootball365.com/nfl/articles/20814.html |date=January 3, 2008 }}, Retrieved on January 7, 2008. He finished the season ranking fourth on the League's all-time combined kick return list, behind Brian Mitchell (13), Eric Metcalf (12), and Dante Hall (12).ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4249 Hester wins fourth player of week award of season] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080105041301/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4249 |date=January 5, 2008 }} Retrieved on January 6, 2008 Additionally, he amassed 299 yards on 20 receptions as a receiver, though he was often used as a decoy.Chicago Sports Weekly, [http://www.csweekly.com/featuredStory/index/id/153 Making Sense of Devin] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080104225535/http://www.csweekly.com/featuredStory/index/id/153 |date=January 4, 2008 }}, Retrieved on January 7, 2008. His play on offense received mixed commentary. While the Bears' coaching staff believed Hester showed enough progress to become one of the team's top receivers in 2008, Hester was prone to making small errors, including running routes incorrectly or dropping catches.NWI.com, [http://www.nwi.com/articles/2008/01/01/columnists/al_hamnik/docc49d787617c409f0862573c2007aabd5.txt Early returns say Hester a runaway winner], Retrieved on January 7, 2008.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4215 Hester could be in mix for starting receiver spot in '08] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071225022452/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4215 |date=December 25, 2007 }}, Retrieved on January 7, 2008. He drew a 15-yard facemask penalty while attempting to fend off a would-be tackler in a game against the Saints, and received a $5,000 fine.The Chicago Tribune, [https://archive.today/20070813080504/http://www.dabearz.com/forums/28979-briggs-berrian-have-suitors-hester.html Briggs, Berrian have suitors], Retrieved on January 7, 2008. Nevertheless, Hester concluded the season with four Player of the Week Awards, giving him a franchise-high total of seven in his career, and an invitation to the 2008 Pro Bowl.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4249 Hester wins fourth player of week award of season] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080105041301/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4249 |date=January 5, 2008 }}, Retrieved on January 7, 2008.

File:Devin Hester Sr. (2008).jpg

File:Devin Hester at Training Camp.jpg in 2008]]

Prior to the beginning of the 2008 season, Hester stated that he would not attend the Bears' summer camp unless the team offered him a new contract.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4889 Bears surprised by Hester's absence from camp] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080725075005/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4889 |date=July 25, 2008 }}, Retrieved on July 23, 2008. He further voiced his displeasure with his current contract in a phone interview with the Chicago Tribune, commenting, "I can't go out and play this year making $445,000. Come on, man."{{cite news |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2008-07-29-0807280720-story.html |title=Holding out for a hero |work=Chicago Tribune |date=2008-07-29 |access-date=2021-06-29 }} League insider Adam Schefter believed the Bears were puzzled over how Hester should be classified (as a wide receiver or a return specialist of such a star caliber), and be offered a contract accordingly.NFL.com, [http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d809779e0 Around The League – July 24] After receiving a $30,000 fine for not attending two days of training, Hester returned to the team's camp.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4900 Hester ends two-day holdout, reports to training camp] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120324211002/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=4900 |date=March 24, 2012 }}, Retrieved on July 25, 2008. The team later offered him a new four-year contract extension, worth over $40 million.RotoWorld.com, {{cite web|url=http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_main.aspx?id%3D3675%26sport%3DNFL |title=Devin Hester |access-date=December 5, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101115095932/http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_main.aspx?sport=NFL&id=3675 |archive-date=November 15, 2010 }}, Retrieved on December 4, 2010.

Hester missed the third game of the season after tearing cartilage in his ribs during the previous week.USA Today, [https://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/bears/2008-09-18-hester_N.htm Extent of Devin Hester's rib injury remains unclear], Retrieved on October 6, 2008. He returned to the field in the team's week 4 contest against the Philadelphia Eagles, where he caught his first touchdown of the season. Smith gave Hester his first starting job as a wide receiver the next week, in place of the injured Brandon Lloyd.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=5207 Lloyd to miss Sunday's game in Detroit with knee injury] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081006013527/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=5207 |date=October 6, 2008 }}, Retrieved on October 6, 2008. Hester went on to catch five passes for 66 yards and one touchdown.Yahoo! Sports, [https://archive.today/20120714084852/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/boxscore;_ylt=ArsInJv1mcn1IjgzpEK1XBNDubYF?gid=20081005008 NFL – Chicago Bears/Detroit Lions Box Score Sunday October 5, 2008], Retrieved on October 6, 2008. In the following week, Hester totaled 87 yards on six receptions.

After a week 8 bye, Hester caught four passes for 42 yards and had an 11-yard run against the Detroit Lions. He eventually lost his kick return duties to Danieal Manning, but began receiving more playing time as a wide receiver.DailyHerald.com, [http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=257678&src=148 Manning the man on opening kickoff], Retrieved on December 15, 2008. Between week 12 and 15, Hester caught 17 passes for 250 yards and one touchdown.Yahoo! Sports, [https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/players/7806 Devin Hester – Chicago Bears – NFL], Retrieved on December 15, 2008. David Haugh of the Chicago Tribune regarded Hester as the team's "biggest threat in the passing game".Chicago Tribune, [http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-14-haugh-bearsdec14,0,7369043.column 10 things to take away from the Bears' victory] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090116095947/http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-14-haugh-bearsdec14,0,7369043.column |date=January 16, 2009 }}, Retrieved on December 15, 2008. He concluded the season by catching 51 passes for a team high 665 yards.Pro-Football-Reference.com, [https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/2008.htm 2008 Chicago Bears], Retrieved on January 7, 2009. Unlike his previous two seasons in the NFL, Hester did not record a single touchdown return and only averaged 6.2 yards per punt return.NFL.com, [http://www.nfl.com/players/devinhester/profile?id=HES267217 Devin Hester], Retrieved on January 7, 2009. Smith commented on Hester at the end of the season by saying, "I know his returns dropped off a little bit this year, but his plate was full there for a while. We think we have a happy medium now for him as a punt returner and continuing to develop as a receiver."{{cite news|first=Larry|last=Mayer|title=Bears confident Hester will take next step as wide receiver|date=January 7, 2008|publisher=chicagobears.com|url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=5507|access-date=January 7, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120406184758/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=5507|archive-date=April 6, 2012|url-status=dead}} Hester was also selected to play in the 2009 Pro Bowl as a third alternate.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=5459 Veteran linebacker Briggs voted to fourth straight Pro Bowl] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090119140944/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=5459 |date=January 19, 2009 }}, Retrieved on January 7, 2009.

After the acquisition of Jay Cutler, Hester took on the role as the de facto number-one wide receiver.ChicagoBears.com [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/ChalkTalkStory.asp?story_id=5940 Does Hester have what it takes to be No. 1 receiver] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091026212311/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/ChalkTalkStory.asp?story_id=5940 |date=October 26, 2009 }}, Retrieved on November 15, 2009.ChicagoBears.com [http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=6280 Hester continuing to develop into all-around wide receiver] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091111025225/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=6280 |date=November 11, 2009 }}, Retrieved on November 15, 2009. In the first game of the season, Hester caught seven passes from Cutler for 90 yards, including a 36-yard touchdown reception. In the following weeks Hester began to develop a rapport with Cutler and amassed 634 receiving yards and three touchdowns through the first ten weeks of the season. He played the best game of the season on October 25, 2009, against the Cincinnati Bengals, catching eight passes for 101 yards and a touchdown. In a game against the St. Louis Rams during the thirteenth week of the season, Hester injured his calf and missed three starts.{{cite news|first=Brad |last=Biggs |title=Hester, Payne removed from injury report |date=January 1, 2010 |publisher=chicagobreakingsports.com |url=http://www.chicagobreakingsports.com/2010/01/hester-payne-removed-from-injury-report.html |access-date=January 2, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105014745/http://www.chicagobreakingsports.com/2010/01/hester-payne-removed-from-injury-report.html |archive-date=January 5, 2010 }} Hester returned to play in the Bears season finale against the Detroit Lions, catching three passes for 75 yards.{{cite news|first=Larry|last=Lage|title=Bears beat Lions 37–23 to finish disappointing 7–9|date=January 3, 2010|work=Yahoo! Sports|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20100103008|agency=Associated Press|access-date=January 4, 2010|archive-date=January 6, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100106055151/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20100103008|url-status=dead}} Despite missing the three starts, Hester led the team with 757 receiving yards, and finished behind Greg Olsen in receptions. Hester built his reputation around his kick returning abilities, but his kickoff-returning duties decreased significantly following the 2007 season finale.ESPN.com, [https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/gamelog/_/id/9643/devin-hester Devin Hester Game Log – Chicago Bears – ESPN:], Retrieved on November 15, 2009. He told the Chicago Tribune that he planned on spending the offseason honing his receiving and returning skills by strengthening in his legs, especially to fully recover from the calf injury he sustained earlier.{{cite news|first=Vaughn|last=McClure|title=Devin Hester looks to regain return form|date=January 3, 2010|newspaper=Chicago Tribune|url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-03-bears-devin-hester-jan03,0,4337186.story|access-date=January 4, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100104191805/http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-03-bears-devin-hester-jan03,0,4337186.story|archive-date=January 4, 2010}}

During the offseason, Hester worked on his speed and conditioning by prioritizing running over weight training.{{cite news|url=http://www.suntimes.com/sports/6396985-419/after-2010-success-bears-devin-hester-wont-be-changing-routine.html|title=August 1, 2011|work=Chicago Sun-Times|date=July 7, 2011|access-date=August 3, 2012}} Bears offensive coordinator Mike Martz gave Hester the opportunity to work with Isaac Bruce, who was part of Martz's "Greatest Show on Turf". Bruce advised Hester on route-running and basic wide receiver fundamentals. Hester appeared in three preseason games, where he recorded five receptions for 64 yards.Chicago Sun-Times, [http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2010/07/hester_learning_from_ex-rams_g.html Hester Learning from Ex-Rams Great Bruce] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111225090914/http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2010/07/hester_learning_from_ex-rams_g.html |date=December 25, 2011 }} August 1, 2011

On September 19, the regular season, Hester caught four passes for 77 yards and a one-handed catch for a touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys. The following week, Hester returned a punt for a 62-yard touchdown in a close game against the Green Bay Packers. This was his first touchdown return since the final week of the 2007 season against the New Orleans Saints. On October 17, Hester returned two punts for 93 yards and an 89-yard touchdown, in a 23–20 loss against the Seattle Seahawks. The touchdown tied the record for most combined kick and punt return touchdowns in a career with Brian Mitchell (13).Chicago Tribune, [https://www.chicagotribune.com/2010/10/17/hester-ties-nfl-record-for-career-td-returns/ Hester Ties NFL Record], October 17, 2010 In week 10 of the regular season, Hester caught four passes for 38 yards and a 19-yard touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings. Hester was given back his kick return duties, and returned two kicks for 100 yards including a run back of 68 yards. Hester also ran back two punts for 47 yards including a return of 42 yards. Two weeks later, Hester caught three balls for 86 yards from Jay Cutler, and returned a kick 46 yards in a 31–26 win against the Philadelphia Eagles. On December 20 in a game against the Minnesota Vikings, Hester scored on a 15-yard touchdown pass from Jay Cutler. Later, Hester returned a Chris Kluwe punt 64 yards for a touchdown, which set the all-time NFL record for combined kickoff and punt returns for touchdown with 14, passing Brian Mitchell. It was the tenth punt return for touchdown of his career, tying Eric Metcalf's record for the most punt return touchdowns in a career.ESPN, [http://www.1500espn.com/sportswire/Notebook_Devin_Hester_breaks_record_burns_Vikings_on_returns_again122110 Hester Breaks Record, Burns Vikings on Return again] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717034621/http://www.1500espn.com/sportswire/Notebook_Devin_Hester_breaks_record_burns_Vikings_on_returns_again122110 |date=July 17, 2011 }} December 21, 2010ESPN, [https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/stats/_/id/9643/devin-hester ESPN - Devin Hester Stats] August 2, 2011

Hester finished the season with 40 receptions for 475 yards and four touchdowns. As a return specialist, he amassed 564 yards on punt returns, while averaging 17.1 yards per return and scored three touchdowns. Hester was the third leading scorer, behind running back Matt Forte and kicker Robbie Gould. His accomplishments in the 2010 season earned him 2 NFC Special Teams Player of The Week Awards, a trip to the 2011 Pro Bowl, and a selection to the All-Pro Team.NFL, [http://www.nfl.com/player/devinhester/2506897/careerstats Devin Hester - Career Stats], August 1, 2011ESPN, [https://www.espn.com/blog/chicago/bears/post/_/id/4668828/hester-rewards-teammates-for-pro-bowl-bid Hester Rewards Teammates for Pro Bowl Bid], December 29, 2011 Hester was ranked 32nd best player in the League in a poll where active NFL players ranked their top 100 peers.{{Cite web |title=2011 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2011-nfl-top-100.htm |access-date=2024-07-24 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

File:Devin Hester 2011 2.jpg

Prior to the 2011 season, the NFL passed a new rule that moved kickoffs to the 35-yard line from the 30-yard line. The change was a result of a player safety initiative to reduce injuries during kick-offs.{{cite news |last=Marvez |first=Alex |url=http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/story/NFL-moves-kickoff-35-yard-line-tweaks-replay-rule-owners-meeting-032211 |title=NFL moves up kickoff to 35-yard line |work=Fox Sports |date=March 22, 2011 |access-date=May 25, 2016 }} The rule change directly resulted in a higher number of touchbacks and fewer returns.{{cite news |last=Battista |first=Judy |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/06/sports/football/rule-change-leads-to-more-touchbacks-than-anticipated-nfl-fast-forward.html?_r=0 |title=Stifling Returns Beyond Expectations |work=The New York Times |date=December 5, 2011 |access-date=May 25, 2016 }} Hester commented on the situation stating, "They got a couple touchbacks but you've still got guys bringing it out and at the end of the day that rule is pointless."{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Michael |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/09/17/devin-hester-on-kickoff-changes-that-rule-is-pointless/ |title=Devin Hester on kickoff changes: "That rule is pointless" |work=Profootballtalk.com |publisher=NBC Sports |date=September 17, 2011 |access-date=May 25, 2016 }}

On October 2, 2011, Hester became the NFL's all-time leader in punt return touchdowns with 11 when he returned a punt 69 yards for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers{{cite news|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory/bears-hester-returns-record-11th-punt-td-14651263|title=Bears' Hester Returns Record 11th Punt for TD|date=October 2, 2011|access-date=October 2, 2011|agency=Associated Press|work=ABC News}} surpassing Eric Metcalf's record. On October 16, Hester returned a kickoff for a 98-yard touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings. On November 13, Hester returned a punt 82 yards for a touchdown against the Detroit Lions.{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201111130chi.htm |title=Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears - November 13th, 2011 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en |access-date=November 14, 2017}} He was ranked 48th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2012.{{Cite web |title=2012 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2012-nfl-top-100.htm |access-date=2024-07-24 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}

On April 30, 2012, Bears offensive coordinator Mike Tice and general manager Phil Emery announced that Hester's role would be reduced down to at least 4th-string, and Tice mentioned that the Bears would utilize Hester in a series of plays called the "Hester Package", instead of an every-down receiver.{{cite web|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/bears-ready-to-give-up-on-hester-as-every-down-receiver-09000d5d828c2007|title=Bears ready to give up on Hester as every-down receiver|work=NFL.com|date=April 30, 2012|access-date=August 3, 2012}} In the season, Hester caught 23 passes while only catching one touchdown, which occurred in week 4 against the Dallas Cowboys. He also failed to return a kick/punt for a touchdown and ranked 22nd in punt return average during 2012. After Smith's firing on December 31, Hester stated that he considered retirement, though he tweeted that his consideration was not related to Smith.{{cite web|last=Mayer|first=Larry|url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Hester-Retirement-talk-not-related-to-Smiths-firing/48c5d378-4569-4864-8b30-8a87ac2591ea|title=Hester: Retirement talk not related to Smith's firing|publisher=Chicago Bears|access-date=January 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130105031412/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Hester-Retirement-talk-not-related-to-Smiths-firing/48c5d378-4569-4864-8b30-8a87ac2591ea|archive-date=January 5, 2013|url-status=dead}}

Hester exclusively saw playing time as a return specialist when Marc Trestman became the Bears' head coach.{{cite web|last=Sessler|first=Marc|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/devin-hester-no-longer-wide-receiver-for-chicago-bears-0ap1000000152245|title=Devin Hester no longer wide receiver for Chicago Bears|publisher=National Football League|date=March 20, 2013|access-date=March 20, 2013}} In week two against the Minnesota Vikings, Hester broke the team record for most kickoff return yards in a game with 249.{{cite web|last=Mayer|first=Larry|url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Hester-lifts-Bears-with-record-breaking-effort/ce4a5cba-47a9-4bed-ad2c-f8ccbbf8dd62|title=Hester lifts Bears with record-breaking effort|publisher=Chicago Bears|date=September 15, 2013|access-date=September 15, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130918132345/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Hester-lifts-Bears-with-record-breaking-effort/ce4a5cba-47a9-4bed-ad2c-f8ccbbf8dd62|archive-date=September 18, 2013|url-status=dead}} Four weeks later against the New York Giants, Hester passed Glyn Milburn for the most all-time kickoff return yards in franchise history with 4,643 yards.{{cite web|last=Mayer|first=Larry|url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Marshall-lifts-Bears-over-Giants-with-two-TD-receptions/b26ab704-0cbb-421c-aeb7-6c45a0be7790|title=Marshall lifts Bears over Giants with two TD receptions|publisher=Chicago Bears|date=October 10, 2013|access-date=October 11, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012003908/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Marshall-lifts-Bears-over-Giants-with-two-TD-receptions/b26ab704-0cbb-421c-aeb7-6c45a0be7790|archive-date=October 12, 2013|url-status=dead}} Against the Washington Redskins, Hester returned a punt 81 yards for a touchdown for his 19th career return touchdown, tying Deion Sanders' record.{{cite web|author=Associated Press|url=http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/chicago-bears-devin-hester-ties-nfl-record-most-return-touchdowns-deion-sanders-102013|title=Hester ties NFL record with 19th TD|work=Fox Sports|date=October 20, 2013|access-date=October 20, 2013}} In addition to Hester's NFL records, he is also the leader in career punt returns (264) and punt return yards (3,241) among active players. Hester ended the 2013 season having averaged 27.7 kickoff return yards and 14.2 punt return yards,{{cite web|url=http://www.chicagobears.com/multimedia/photo-gallery/2013-Season-Highlights/63dcadad-fea7-4e96-b6ee-9c8374fd01b0|title=2013 Season Highlights|work=Chicago Bears|date=January 8, 2014|access-date=January 8, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140109015340/http://www.chicagobears.com/multimedia/photo-gallery/2013-Season-Highlights/63dcadad-fea7-4e96-b6ee-9c8374fd01b0|archive-date=January 9, 2014|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}} while also leading the league in kickoff return yards with 1,442.{{cite web|last=Mayer|first=Larry|url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Gould-gave-Bears-leg-to-stand-on/32155a21-a626-427d-a009-cf250a769a5c|title=Gould gave Bears leg to stand on|publisher=Chicago Bears|date=January 31, 2014|access-date=January 31, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140218212839/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Gould-gave-Bears-leg-to-stand-on/32155a21-a626-427d-a009-cf250a769a5c|archive-date=February 18, 2014|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}

Hester became a free agent on March 11, 2014. He released a statement on March 5, 2014, that the Bears did not intend to re-sign him. Hester thanked the Bears organization and fan base for their support throughout his time in Chicago.[https://www.espn.com/chicago/nfl/story/_/id/10559764/devin-hester-says-back-chicago-bears-next-season Devin Hester won't return to Bears], Retrieved on March 6, 2014 Phil Emery, the Bears' general manager, commented on Hester's legacy, stating, "While Devin has redefined the pinnacle standard of the return position in the NFL, the memories and contributions he has given us cannot be measured by stats or numbers."BearReport, [http://chi.scout.com/2/1381513.html Bears say goodbye to Devin Hester] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140306230721/http://chi.scout.com/2/1381513.html |date=March 6, 2014 }} Retrieved on March 6, 2014

File:Devin Hester 2014.jpg in 2014]]

Hester signed a three-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons on March 20, 2014.{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Michael David|url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/03/20/falcons-sign-devin-hester/|title=Falcons sign Devin Hester|publisher=Profootballtalk.com|date=March 20, 2014|access-date=March 20, 2014}} In his debut game with the Falcons, Hester caught five passes for 99 yards, helping lead the Falcons to a 37–34 week 1 overtime victory over the New Orleans Saints.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/boxscore?gameId=400554215|title=New Orleans Saints vs. Atlanta Falcons|work=espn.com|date=September 8, 2014| access-date=September 8, 2014}} During week 3 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Hester brought back a 62-yard punt for his 20th career touchdown return, breaking the record for career non-offensive touchdowns he previously shared with Deion Sanders. Also in the same game, Hester recorded a rushing touchdown, forced fumble and fumble recovery.{{cite news |last=Florio |first=Mike |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/09/18/devin-hester-passes-deion-sanders-for-all-time-td-return-mark/ |title=Devin Hester passes Deion Sanders for all-time TD return mark |work=profootballtalk.com |publisher=NBC Sports |date=September 18, 2014 |access-date=September 19, 2014 }} Hester was named the NFC's Special Teams Player of the Week for his accomplishments.{{Cite web |last=Vivlamore |first=Chris |date=2014-09-28 |title=Ryan, Hester honored as NFC players of week (updated) |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/football/ryan-hester-honored-nfc-players-week-updated/z4eEKXEygHckDyB8dllz0H/ |access-date=2024-09-07 |website=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution}} Hester concluded the season with 504 receiving yards from 38 receptions and led the NFL with 1,128 kick-off return yards.{{cite news |last=Jahns |first=Adam |url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/sports/falcons-release-former-bears-returner-devin-hester/ |title=Falcons release former Bears returner Devin Hester |work=Chicago Sun-Times |date=July 26, 2016 |access-date=December 13, 2016 }} He was also selected to play in the 2015 Pro Bowl.{{cite news |last=Adams |first=Jay |url=http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/Jones-Hester-Named-to-Pro-Bowl-Roster/026adf36-b49e-4ad0-ba50-de3d3865f83e |title=JONES, HESTER NAMED TO PRO BOWL ROSTER |work=Atlanta Falcons |date=December 23, 2014 |access-date=December 13, 2016 }}

Hester missed a majority of the 2015 NFL season due to a turf toe injury.{{cite web|work=AtlantaFalcons.com|url=http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/blog/article-1/Falcons-Place-WR-Hester-on-Short-Term-IR/0d6d9320-6716-4ac3-bba3-c60bdd2ae9da|title=Falcons Place WR Hester on Short-Term IR|date=October 6, 2015|access-date=October 8, 2015}} The Falcons activated him from the injury reserve for the final five games of the season, but only used Hester on special teams.{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Michael |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/06/14/devin-hester-unsure-about-his-role-in-falcons-offense/ |title=Devin Hester unsure about his role in Falcons' offense |work=NBC Sports |date=June 14, 2015 |access-date=March 6, 2016 }} He tallied 235 kick return yards and 34 punt return yards, but failed to record a touchdown. Hester underwent foot surgery in January 2016 to repair the toe injury he sustained earlier in the season.{{cite news |url=http://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/falcons-devin-hester-to-begin-rehab-soon/ |title=Falcons' Devin Hester: To begin rehab soon |work=CBS Sports |date=March 3, 2016 |access-date=March 6, 2016 }}

On July 26, Hester was released by the Falcons.{{cite news |url=http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/blog/article-1/Falcons-Release-WR-Devin-Hester-/b57d1aab-eed6-45ad-aa05-a973c9dc3b35 |title=FALCONS RELEASE WR DEVIN HESTER |work=AtlantaFalcons |date=July 7, 2016 |access-date=July 7, 2016 }} Hester attributed his dismissal to the lingering toe-injury he sustained in the previous season. He voiced interest in continuing his career in the NFL for the 2016 season once he has fully recovered.{{cite news |last=McClure |first=Vaughn |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/17179154/devin-hester-wants-play-one-more-season-recovering-toe-surgery |title=Devin Hester seeks full recovery before signing |work=ESPN |date=July 30, 2016 |access-date=July 31, 2016 }}

On September 4, 2016, Hester agreed to a one-year deal with the Baltimore Ravens.{{Cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000695228/article/baltimore-ravens-plan-to-sign-devin-hester|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160904220144/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000695228/article/baltimore-ravens-plan-to-sign-devin-hester|url-status=dead|archive-date=September 4, 2016|title=Baltimore Ravens plan to sign Devin Hester|website=NFL.com |access-date=September 4, 2016}} Hester appeared in 12 games for the Ravens, where he was used exclusively as a return specialist. He recorded 180 punt return yards and 466 kick return yards but failed to return a touchdown during the 2016 season.{{cite news |last=Bartelson |first=Jacob |url=http://journalstar.com/sports/football/baltimore-ravens-cut-kr-devin-hester/article_d27aa58f-8395-55d9-b242-6c0734a170b4.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170105015702/http://journalstar.com/sports/football/baltimore-ravens-cut-kr-devin-hester/article_d27aa58f-8395-55d9-b242-6c0734a170b4.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 5, 2017 |title=Baltimore Ravens cut KR Devin Hester |work=Pro Football Weekly |date=December 13, 2016 |access-date=December 14, 2016 }} The Ravens released Hester on December 13.{{cite news |last=Bergman |first=Jeremy |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/ravens-waive-former-bears-legend-devin-hester-0ap3000000756520 |title=Ravens waive former Bears legend Devin Hester |work=NFL.com |date=December 13, 2016 |access-date=December 14, 2016 }}

Hester signed with the Seattle Seahawks on January 3, 2017.{{cite news |last=Bergman |first=Jeremy |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/seahawks-sign-veteran-return-man-devin-hester-0ap3000000769348 |title=Seahawks sign veteran return man Devin Hester |work=NFL.com |date=January 3, 2017 |access-date=January 4, 2017 }} He debuted for the Seahawks in the first round of the 2016–17 playoffs against the Detroit Lions.{{cite news |last=Cunningham |first=Michael |url=http://www.ajc.com/sports/football/hester-hurts-falcons-return/s2wKAZSEXXAT2a9tBiNgyK/ |title=Hester hurts Falcons in return |work=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |date=January 14, 2017 |access-date=January 15, 2017 }} Hester returned one kickoff for 20 yards and one punt for five yards against the Detroit Lions. During the Divisional Round, he returned five kickoffs for 194 yards, including 78- and 50-yard run backs against the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons defeated the Seahawks, 36–20. Hester announced his intentions to retire from professional football after the game.{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Michael |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/01/15/devin-hester-plans-to-retire/ |title=Devin Hester plans to retire |work=NBC Sports |date=January 15, 2017 |access-date=January 15, 2017 }}

On December 12, 2017, Hester officially announced his retirement from the NFL.{{cite web|last1=Patra|first1=Kevin|title=Return-man Devin Hester retires after 11 seasons|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/return-man-devin-hester-retires-after-11-seasons-0ap3000000892085|website=NFL.com|date=December 12, 2017}} The Chicago Bears honored both Hester and former teammate Matt Forte on April 23, 2018, during a press conference at Halas Hall. The two players signed ceremonial one-day contracts to retire as members of the Bears.{{cite news |last=Mayer |first=Larry |url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Hester-Forte-officially-retire-as-Bears/6911eaf3-b4d3-4c51-a2c6-f1f48ed676bd |title=Hester, Forte officially retire as Bears |work=Chicago Bears |publisher=chicagobears.com |date=April 23, 2018 |access-date=April 24, 2018 }}

He amassed over 10,000 career yards returning punts and kickoffs, an NFL-record 20 touchdown returns, and four Pro Bowl selections over his 11-season career.{{cite news |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2017/12/12/kick-return-ace-devin-hester-retires-from-nfl/108537686/ |title=Kick return star Devin Hester retires from NFL |work=USA Today |publisher=Associated Press |date=December 12, 2017 |accessdate=May 20, 2023 }} He is regarded as one of the greatest return specialists in NFL history.{{cite news |last=Patra |first=Kevin |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/cowboys-believe-returner-kavontae-turpin-can-have-devin-hester-effect |title=Cowboys believe returner KaVontae Turpin can have 'Devin Hester effect' |work=National Football League |date=September 7, 2022 |accessdate=May 20, 2023 }}{{cite news |last=Hensley |first=Jamison |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/baltimore-ravens/post/_/id/31092/ravens-unsure-whether-devin-hester-will-ever-be-healthy-this-season |title=Ravens make no guarantees Devin Hester will remain their returner |work=ESPN |date=October 24, 2016 |accessdate=May 20, 2023 }}{{cite magazine |last=Goldich |first=Mitch |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2022/02/08/devin-hester-hall-of-fame-daily-cover |title=In Reshaping the Rules, Have We Written Devin Hester—or Future Hesters—Out of Football? |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=February 8, 2023 |accessdate=May 20, 2023 }} Dave Toub, Hester's former special teams coordinator, noted Hester left a lasting impression in the NFL, shaping the way teams approached special teams and the value they placed on return specialists.{{cite news |last1=Pompei |first1=Dan |last2=Sando |first2=Mike |url=https://theathletic.com/3064838/2022/01/13/the-best-ive-seen-devin-hester-did-more-than-change-games-the-electric-return-man-changed-the-game/ |title='The best I've seen': Devin Hester did more than change games; the electric return man changed the game |work=The Athletic |date=January 13, 2022 |accessdate=May 20, 2023 }} He believed Hester's success led other teams to invest draft capital in return specialists, hoping to replicate the impact Hester had on the Bears. He also added other teams shifted their approach by prioritizing players who excelled in covering kicks and punts rather than retaining backups who made limited contributions to special teams.

On September 22, 2021, Hester was nominated for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility,{{Cite news|last=Boadway|first=Pat|date=2021-09-22|title=Devin Hester Nominated for Pro Football Hall of Fame 2022 Class|url=https://ontapsportsnet.com/2021/09/22/bears-devin-hester-football-hall-of-fame-nominated-for-2022-class/|access-date=2021-09-22|website=On Tap Sports Net|language=en-US}} though he was not inducted.{{cite news | url=https://www.si.com/college/miami/football/nfl-legend-deion-sanders-speaks-out-against-devin-hesters-hof-snub | title=NFL Legend Deion Sanders Speaks Out Against Devin Hester's HOF Snub | newspaper=All Hurricanes on Sports Illustrated: News, Analysis, and More }} On February 8, 2024, in his third year of eligibility, Hester was selected for induction,{{cite web |url=https://www.profootballhof.com/news/2024/02/pro-football-hall-of-fame-to-enshrine-seven-in-class-of-2024/ |title=Pro Football Hall of Fame to enshrine seven in Class of 2024 |website=Pro Football Hall of Fame |date=February 8, 2024 |access-date=February 8, 2024}} becoming the first return specialist to make the Hall of Fame.{{cite web |last=Reineking |first=Jim |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2024/02/08/devin-hester-pro-football-hall-of-fame/72529018007/ |title=Devin Hester makes history as first return specialist selected to Pro Football Hall of Fame |website=USA Today |date=February 8, 2024 |access-date=February 8, 2024}}

Hester also returned a missed field goal 108 yards for a touchdown in a 2006 game against the New York Giants, and thus has 6 total TD for that season.

• Combined special teams return touchdowns, career: 20 (14 punts, 5 kickoffs, 1 missed field goal)
• Most non-offensive touchdowns, career: 20
• Most kickoff and punt return touchdowns, career: 19
• Punt return touchdowns, career: 14
• Punt return touchdowns, season: 4 ({{nfly|2007}})
• Kickoff return touchdowns, game: 2 (Chicago Bears at St. Louis Rams, December 11, 2006)
• tied with many other players
• Combined return touchdowns, season: 6 ({{nfly|2007}}) (4 punts, 2 kickoffs)
• Combined return touchdowns, rookie, season: 6 ({{nfly|2006}}) (3 punts, 2 kickoffs, 1 missed field goal)
• Combined return touchdowns, game: 2, twice
• 2, Chicago Bears at St. Louis Rams, December 11, 2006 (2 kickoffs)
• 2, Chicago Bears vs. Denver Broncos, November 25, 2007 (1 punt, 1 kickoff)
• Non-offensive touchdowns, season: 6, twice
• 6, {{nfly|2006}} (3 punts, 2 kickoffs, 1 missed field goal)
• 6, {{nfly|2007}} (4 punts, 2 kickoffs)
• Fastest Touchdown in Super Bowl history: 14 seconds

• Most punt returns, lifetime: 264
• Most punt return yards, lifetime: 3,241 yards{{cite news |last=Mayer |first=Larry |url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-bythenumbers/Devin-Hester%E2%80%99s-career-By-the-Numbers/15ffb628-f3f8-4c5e-aae6-2dedaa72d13f |title=Devin Hester's career By the Numbers |work=Chicago Bears |publisher=chicagobears.com |date=April 22, 2018 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423005132/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-bythenumbers/Devin-Hester%E2%80%99s-career-By-the-Numbers/15ffb628-f3f8-4c5e-aae6-2dedaa72d13f |archive-date=April 23, 2018 |access-date=April 23, 2018 }}
• Most punt return yards, season: 651 yards (2007)
• Most punt return yards, game: 152 yards, at Arizona Cardinals, October 16, 2006
• Highest average, yards per punt return, season [min. 15 returns]: 17.1 (2010)
• Hester returned 33 punts for 564 yards.
• Highest average, yards per punt return, game [min. 3 returns]: 40.7, vs. Detroit Lions, November 13, 2011
• Hester returned 3 punts for 122 yards.
• Most punt return touchdowns, lifetime: 14
• Most punt return touchdowns, season: 4
• Most punt return touchdowns, game: 1
• Achieved several times and tied with many players
• Most punt return fair catches, lifetime: 79
• Most kickoff returns, lifetime: 222
• Most kickoff return yards, lifetime: 5,510 yards
• Most kickoff return yards, game: 249 yards, vs. Minnesota Vikings, September 15, 2013
• Highest average, yards per kickoff return, game [min. 3 returns]: 56.3, at St. Louis Rams, December 11, 2006
• Hester returned 4 kickoffs for 225 yards.
• Most kickoff return touchdowns, game: 2, at St. Louis Rams, December 11, 2006
• Most combined return yards, lifetime: 8,751 yards (p-3,241, k-5,510)
• Most combined return yards, game: 314 yards, at Detroit Lions, September 30, 2007 (p-95, k-219)
• Most combined return touchdowns, lifetime: 20 (p-14, k-5, missed fg-1)
• Most combined return touchdowns, season: 6 in 2006 (p-3, k-2, missed fg-1)

:6 in 2007 (p-4, k-2)

• Most combined return touchdowns, game: 2, twice
• 2, at St. Louis Rams, December 11, 2006 (2 kickoffs)
• 2, vs. Denver Broncos, November 25, 2007 (1 punt, 1 kickoff)
• Longest play: 108 yards, at New York Giants, November 12, 2006
• tied with Nathan Vasher

Hester was in a relationship with Tamara James, a women's basketball player he met at the University of Miami. James played professionally for the Washington Mystics of the WNBA. Their engagement was later called off. Later, Hester married Zingha Walcott, an elementary school teacher, in 2010.{{cite news |last=Rodkin |first=Dennis |url=http://www.chicagobusiness.com/realestate/20140402/CRED0701/140409942/devin-hester-makes-poor-return-on-riverwoods-house-sale |title=Devin Hester makes poor return on Riverwoods house sale |work=Crain's Chicago Business |date=April 2, 2014 |access-date=September 28, 2014 }} They have three sons and live in Windermere, Florida. Hester's family lives in Florida and was struck by Hurricane Wilma in 2005. Hester has assisted his family financially in helping them rebuild their home.Scout.com, [http://bears.scout.com/2/591150.html Devin Hester Rookie Diary: Entry 1] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071014062346/http://bears.scout.com/2/591150.html |date=October 14, 2007 }} Retrieved on November 17, 2006 His brother Lenorris Jr., lived with Hester during his tenure with the Bears. Raised in a Christian household, Hester brought a Bible to every game he played.{{cite web|url=http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/football/pro/dolphins/sfl-sphester16jan16%2C0%2C1250224.story?coll=sfla-dolphins-front |title=Devin Hester's kick returns can inspire cheers or cringing |newspaper=Sun Sentinel|access-date=April 26, 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070119013722/http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/football/pro/dolphins/sfl-sphester16jan16%2C0%2C1250224.story?coll=sfla-dolphins-front |archive-date=January 19, 2007 }} Retrieved on January 16, 2007 Hester is also cousins with Aaron Hester who played for the Edmonton Eskimos of the Canadian Football League.{{cite news|title=Aaron Hester, Devin's cousin, ready to make his own name in the NFL |work=suntimes.com |url=http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2013/04/aaron_hester_devins_cousin_rea.html |access-date=April 25, 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130430181414/http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2013/04/aaron_hester_devins_cousin_rea.html |archive-date=April 30, 2013 }}

Hester's successful rookie year drew him much publicity and popularity. After his record-breaking performance against the Rams, Hester was offered marketing opportunities from Nike, soft drink, and cell phone companies.ChicagoBears.com, [http://www.chicagobears.com/multimedia/index.asp?mm_file_id=616&play_clip=Y Devin Hester on success as a rookie (Video)] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070119041638/http://www.chicagobears.com/multimedia/index.asp?mm_file_id=616&play_clip=Y |date=January 19, 2007 }} Retrieved on December 18, 2006

There was also a surge in the demand for Hester's jerseys within the Chicago area sporting stores.{{cite news|author=David Haugh|title=Devin-Mania is gaining speed|work=Chicago Tribune|pages=1;4|date=December 14, 2006}} Hester was invited to throw the ceremonial opening pitch and sing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" at the Chicago Cubs' 2007 home opener.CBS SportsLine.com, [https://archive.today/20120723183759/http://sportsline.com/mlb/gamecenter/recap/MLB_20070409_HOU@CHC First Wrigley outing for Piniella, Soriano ends with defeat], Retrieved on October 8, 2007. Along with teammates Rex Grossman and Tommie Harris, Hester appeared on the February 2007 issue of Sports Illustrated for Kids. Hester's perfect 100 speed rating in EA Sports' Madden NFL 08 made him the fastest player in the game's history.ESPN.com, [https://www.espn.com/videogames/news/story?id=2826180 Devin Hester: Maximum Speed] Retrieved on April 6, 2007 Hester also appeared in a promotional video for the game.{{YouTube|Ge_Qwzdae94|Madden 08 Draft – Devin Hester}}, Retrieved on June 22, 2007 He appeared in commercials for Under Armour in 2008 and 2009.{{cite news|first=Terry|last=Lefton|title=Under Armour inks endorsement deal with NFL's Devin Hester|date=July 16, 2008|publisher=Baltimore Business Journal|url=http://baltimore.bizjournals.com/baltimore/stories/2008/07/14/daily29.html|access-date=November 15, 2009}} In 2013, Hester outran a cheetah in a race sponsored by National Geographic at Busch Gardens Tampa. The competition consisted of Hester running back and forth on a straight track to simulate laps, while the cheetah ran in a similar but separate track.{{cite news | first = Nick | last = Scwartz | title = National Geographic's 'Man vs. Cheetah' pits NFL's Devin Hester, Chris Johnson against cat | date = November 30, 2013 | url = http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/national-geographic-man-cheetah-pits-nfl-runners-cat-article-1.1533376 | work = Daily News | access-date = November 30, 2013}}

In 2013, Hester founded the Anytime 23 Empowerment Center Inc., a non-profit organization that serves as a positive, nurturing and safe environment for kids ages 6–18.Anytime23Empowerment.com, [https://www.anytime23empowerment.com/about-us/ Anytime 23 Empowerment Center Inc.] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140826161749/https://www.anytime23empowerment.com/about-us/ |date=August 26, 2014 }} Retrieved on August 21, 2014. The organization was later renamed to "Devin Hester Foundation".{{cite news |url=http://www.bgccf.org/devin-hester-foundation-hosts-youth-football-camp/ |title=Devin Hester Foundation Hosts Youth Football Camp |work=Boys & Girls Clubs of America |date=July 17, 2015 |access-date=December 14, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190108201201/https://www.bgccf.org/devin-hester-foundation-hosts-youth-football-camp/ |archive-date=January 8, 2019 |url-status=dead }}

{{Reflist}}

{{footballstats|pfr=7806|yahoo=7806|espn=9643}}

• [https://miamihurricanes.com/roster/devin-hester/ Miami Hurricanes bio]
• {{Commons category inline|Devin Hester}}
• {{Wikiquoteinline|Devin Hester}}
• {{Profootballhof|devin-hester}}

{{Bears2006DraftPicks}}

{{NFL2000s}}

{{NFL2010s}}

{{NFL100}}

{{NFL kickoff return yards leaders}}

{{NFL punt return yards leaders}}

{{2024 Football HOF}}

{{Pro Football Hall of Fame members}}

{{Authority control}}

{{Good article}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Hester, Devin}}

Category:1982 births

Category:Living people

Category:African-American Christians

Category:American football cornerbacks

Category:American football return specialists

Category:American football wide receivers

Category:Atlanta Falcons players

Category:Baltimore Ravens players

Category:Chicago Bears players

Category:Miami Hurricanes football players

Category:National Conference Pro Bowl players

Category:People from Riviera Beach, Florida

Category:Players of American football from Palm Beach County, Florida

Category:Seattle Seahawks players

Category:Unconferenced Pro Bowl players

Category:21st-century African-American sportsmen

Category:20th-century African-American sportsmen

Category:20th-century American sportsmen

Category:Brian Piccolo Award winners

Category:Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees