Words can't express how disappointing Devin Hester has been in the return game this season. I'll never forget all the highlights he provided for us in his first two seasons, but it's been a long time since he has looked like that guy. The Hester from this season seems to lack that explosive step to the hole and doesn't seem to have the same vision he did in the first two seasons.
Sure, you could blame it on special teams' personnel overturn, which has -- in the opinion of some -- caused worse blocking this season. He still just doesn't seem right, though. Where's the swagger? Where's the guy who would find his way through a six inch hole that only stayed open for a half-second? Is he hurt? Let's ask Professor Lovie Smith:
''Has [Hester] been hesitant?'' Smith said. ''I don't know what word you want to give it. We haven't gotten a lot of production from our returns, up until this point.''
Well, that clears things up.
Hopefully a return to the venue where he took back two kick returns on Monday Night Football in '06 will help provide a jump-start, but he'll have to do so with limited chances, in all likelihood. Danieal Manning, who has made plays on special teams this season in the few chances he's had, should get some work this weekend in St. Louis.
While I'd like my favorite player of all-time to return to his old ways, I understand the move to give Manning more chances. The Bears have lost the field-position battle in several games this season, and something has to be done to rectify the situation.
Still, can't we have the old Devin back? Please?
Devin Hester Is Not a Good Kick Returner Anymore, Danieal Manning Could Fill In originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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