Introduction
Devin Hester Cherry Worker-Palm worker colorway photo: Devin Hester, A Riviera Beach native born November 4, 1982, is arguably the greatest return specialist in NFL history. A force on kickoffs and punts, Hester changed the game by displaying eye-popping speed, agility and vision. Throughout his career, Hester made a name for himself with his game-changing returns that saw him claim nearly all of the return records. He was also used as a wide receiver and cornerback reflecting his versatility but it is in the return game where his legacy remains.
Records and Career Stats
Devin Hester NFL Highlights: Chicago Bears, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, and Seattle Seahawks Most of his iconic moments came in the golden standard navy and blue of the Bears.
Career Overview:
- Total NFL Games Played: 156
- Total Touchdowns: 37
- Punt Return Touchdowns: 14 (NFL Record)
- Kickoff Return Touchdowns: 5
- Other Return Touchdowns: 5
Hester’s ability to change the momentum of a game with a single return made him one of the most dangerous players in NFL history.
Takedowns Record in Table Format
Hester was primarily a return specialist and rarely involved in tackles. However, his “takedowns” return for touchdowns) on punt and kickoff returns became legendary.
| Season | Team | Games Played | Takedowns (Return TDs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Chicago Bears | 16 | 5 |
| 2007 | Chicago Bears | 16 | 6 |
| 2008 | Chicago Bears | 15 | 3 |
| 2009 | Chicago Bears | 13 | 1 |
| 2010 | Chicago Bears | 16 | 4 |
| 2011 | Chicago Bears | 12 | 3 |
| 2014 | Atlanta Falcons | 16 | 2 |
| Total | 104 | 24 |
These “takedowns” represent touchdowns he scored from kickoff and punt returns, solidifying his reputation as the best returner ever.
Major Victories and Accomplishments
Note: Devin Hester has set numerous records for touchdowns as well as return yardage throughout his career. He owns multiple league records and has the type of game-changing talent that is absolutely invaluable in the biggest games.
NFL Records and Achievements:
- NFL Record for Most Return Touchdowns
- 20 career total return touchdowns (combination of punt, kickoff, and missed field goal returns).
- Most Punt Return Touchdowns in NFL History
- 14 punt return touchdowns.
- First Player to Return the Opening Kickoff of a Super Bowl for a Touchdown
- Super Bowl XLI (Chicago Bears vs. Indianapolis Colts).
- NFL Pro Bowls
- Selected four times: 2006, 2007, 2010, 2014.
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Recognized as the greatest return specialist.
Hester’s most iconic moment came during Super Bowl XLI, where he returned the opening kickoff 92 yards for a touchdown. Although the Bears lost, his performance electrified fans and solidified his legacy.
Family and Personal Life
Hester was born and raised in Riviera Beach, Florida, experiencing hardship after his father died. His brother, Lenorris Jr. was a necessary figure in his initial progress by compelling Hester to take up football. Hester played college football for the University of Miami, where he was a cornerback, wide receiver, and return specialist.
He is married to Zingha Hester and they have two children. Hester is somewhat reclusive when it comes to his family life despite being in the public eye and looking after his children as well as taking care of his inner circle. Since leaving the NFL, he has spent his time with family and made some public appearances meeting fans.
News & current affairs
Today In 2024: Devin Hester Continues To Be Involved In Several Community And Philanthropic Initiatives. In the past couple of years, Hester spoke on behalf of his foundation which is something he still has a strong passion for. He acts as an ambassador for many organizations that encourage children and poorer communities to achieve in the field of sport.
It has been an ongoing debate whether Hester will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. While this is his first year on a ballot, he has not been inducted yet. But most fans and pundits agree that Hester will enter the Hall of Fame someday, simply because of his revolutionary impact on the game.
Hester also shares his thoughts on the current state of special teams in today’s NFL during recent days and through the media. His legacy is among the biggest in the history of football, with his returns and milestone marks still talked about when any player gets near to breaking them.
Net Worth & Financial Summary
As of 2024, Devin Hester’s net worth is estimated to be around $8 million. His NFL contracts, endorsements and post-retirement ventures are his major source of wealth. A player whom teams were often afraid to kick the ball so much as in his general direction during a game, Hester was in high demand as one of the best special teams players during his playing days and earned bags of money off it, especially with the Chicago Bears.
Hester also profited from his popularity in endorsements and partnerships with major brands. He invested in property and still earns money from cameo and NFL-related work. Hester’s maintaining interest in the game has also kept him financially sound years after walking away.
