Devin Hester Wants Fresh Start

Devin ‘Sent From Heaven’ Hester, a man who was drafted as a corner-back out of the University of Miami, is now reportedly open to a trade, if the Chicago Bears intend to go that route. The 30 year old wide receiver/return specialist shattered return records (17 total career returns) in just 6 years in the league. 2006 he recorded 6 returns for touchdowns, his first being against the Green Bay Packers in Week 1 and his longest being a 108-yard missed field goal against the New York Giants. After returning back to Miami for the Super Bowl against the Indianapolis Colts, Hester made history yet again by taking the opening kick off for a touchdown, something that has never been done before in the history of the Championship game.

Oct 2, 2011; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Devin Hester (23) during his 69 yard punt return for a touchdown in the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports

In the 2007 season, Lovie Smith converted the corner-back/return specialist into a wide receiver. Hester who played wide receiver at the University of Miami was hesitant about the change as he wanted to stay in the same position as he was drafted. Ever since Hester has converted to the wide receiver position, his returns for touchdowns have declined. Last year he didn’t have a single return for a touchdown, in-fact his last return was November 12, 2011, an 82 yard punt return at home against the Lions.  Lovie Smith’s departure, it seemed as if Devin has been uneasy. Not sure where he belongs in his system, but one thing is for sure and he has recently stated, he does not want to be a wide receiver anymore. Hester who was interviewed by the Chicago Tribute about his current situation said:

"“I’m going to try to get two of three more years in, I think I have that much left in me.”"

Hester who is due to make $2.1 million in his final year of the contract, mentioned retirement after hearing about Lovie Smith being fired. Although he hasn’t had any big explosive returns, in my opinion he is still a big part of this team. When he is able to get the ball on the receiving end (finished the year with 23 catches and 242 yards and 1 touchdown), he still has the ability to create plays and pick up big gains. Hester also spoke about how he is loyal to his team, but the fans and teammates have to understand where he is coming from. So what does Phil Emery and the front office do about Hester and his request? And what should be the asking price?