Devin Hester named finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame class of 2023

Devin Hester was a legendary return specialist during his NFL career, so it’s only natural to see him return as a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Hester was named one of the 15 modern-era finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2023 on Wednesday for the second year in a row.

Our list of Finalists for the Class of 2023 includes @D_Hest23! pic.twitter.com/XdE6jtwg2f

— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) January 5, 2023

The former Chicago Bears great changed special teams from the moment he was drafted back in 2006. Hester holds the NFL record for most career return touchdowns (20), most career punt return touchdowns (13) and tied for the most return touchdowns in a season (6). Hester earned multiple All-Pro honors and was named to the 2000s and 2010s All-Decade teams.

For almost a decade in Chicago, Hester instilled the fear in special teams coordinators with his magical ability to break open a kickoff or punt return. His most memorable return took place during Super Bowl XLI when Hester returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts in the 29-17 loss.

Hester played with the Bears from 2006-2013, where he scored all but one of his career special teams touchdowns. He also spent time with the Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, and Seattle Seahawks before calling it a career in 2017.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame class of 2023 will be revealed during the NFL Honors, taking place on Super Bowl weekend in February.