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Devin Hester Will Add Dynamism to Chicago's Offense

Chris Stout |Aug 15,2007

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Devin Hester Will Add Dynamism to Chicago's Offense

Last season, rookie running back Reggie Bush gave the New Orleans Saints a versatile weapon on offense. Reggie lined up as the primary RB in single running back formations. He saw action with Deuce McAllister in double-back sets. Bush also lined up as a receiver. Whether he rushed the ball directly, moved in motion before the snap or ran routes downfield, Bush created nightmare match-ups for opposing defenses. Because of his unique, game-breaking abilities, Bush had to be accounted for on every play.

Devin Hester will bring that same type of dynamism to the Chicago’s offense. Hester set an NFL record during his rookie season by scoring five return touchdowns. He returned three punts and two kickoffs for touchdowns. Hester even took the opening kick in Super Bowl XLI all the way to the house.

Hester played in all three phases of the game during his three-year collegiate career at Miami University. Although he saw action as a running back, fullback, wide receiver, nickel back and kick and punt returner, Hester’s primary position was cornerback. This past offseason, after much lobbying from his coaches, Hester agreed to switch to the offense side the ball on a full-time basis. He will likely lineup as a flex-type wide receiver/running back.

Hester’s position switch is noteworthy, because he has the ability to change the complexion of game every time he touches the football. The guy registered only nine tackles on defense last year, but he posted 600 punt return yards and 528 kick return yards. The more times Hester has the ball in his hands, the better off the Bears will be.

Like Reggie Bush last season, the threat of Devin Hester will be just as valuable as his actual playmaking abilities. Defenses will have to find ways to keep him covered on every down. If Devin Hester lines up with Cedric Benson in the backfield, it’s going to create chaos for opposing defenses. Is this guy getting a handoff? Is he going to run a pattern downfield? What happens if Hester goes in motion? Even if he doesn’t touch the ball on a particular play, Hester will force defenses to game plan for him.

Whether he gets the ball or just acts as a decoy, Hester will force defensive overages to alter their approach and react to his presence. With linebackers shifting around trying to cover this potent weapon, it will open up things for other players. Tight ends Desmond Clark and Greg Olsen will be able to work the flat. Benson will have more room to run if Hester’s lining up outside. Bernard Berrian will have an easier time stretching the field. With all of these weapons on offense, even Rex Grossman will be able to step up and make plays. Hester’s position switch will not necessarily propel him to the top of major offensive statistical categories, but it will make the Bears offense much more dynamic and threatening.

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