Fansided

Miami football: 25 greatest Hurricanes of all time

By Joe Romano

MIAMI - JANUARY 1: Defensive back Sean Taylor #26 of the Miami Hurricanes attempts to elude wide receiver P.K. Sam #4 of the Florida State Seminoles during the 2004 Orange Bowl game on January 1, 2004 at Pro Player Stadium in Miami, Florida. The Hurricanes won 16-14. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
MIAMI - JANUARY 1: Defensive back Sean Taylor #26 of the Miami Hurricanes attempts to elude wide receiver P.K. Sam #4 of the Florida State Seminoles during the 2004 Orange Bowl game on January 1, 2004 at Pro Player Stadium in Miami, Florida. The Hurricanes won 16-14. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /
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University of Miami defensive back Devin Hester returns a kick for a gain against Clemson September 17, 2005 at Clemson. (Photo by A. Messerschmidt/Getty Images)
University of Miami defensive back Devin Hester returns a kick for a gain against Clemson September 17, 2005 at Clemson. (Photo by A. Messerschmidt/Getty Images) /

24. Devin Hester

Cornerback/Wide receiver/Returner, 2003-2005

There are going to be players on this list that are unique to what they did in their career with the Hurricanes. One thing is for sure, there will never be another player like Devin Hester. A human highlight reel, Hester is one of the most special athletes to ever play college football.

Hester joined the team in 2003, only two years removed from the National Championship team. During his time with the Hurricanes, he jumped between offense and defense as a corner and receiver. One position, and what he is best known for, was all his; return man.

“Hurricane Hester” did not take long to impact the game, returning a kick-off for a touchdown in his freshman season against the rival Florida Gators. His punt return in 2005 against Duke is still one of the most incredible plays in Miami history, where he broke six tackles on his way to the end zone. He would finish his career with six kick/punt returns in college. Hester was also the rare athlete to catch a touchdown, run a touchdown, and intercept a pass while he played for the Hurricanes.

The Chicago Bears would draft Devin Hester in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He was drafted as a corner but everyone knew that his main goal was to return punts and kicks. In his first season in Chicago Hester would return six touchdowns in 13 games, including a 108-yard field goal return, a record at the time. The biggest highlight of his time with Chicago was starting Super Bowl XLI off with a return touchdown against the Colts.

Hester will always be a fan favorite of the Miami Hurricanes faithful. His electric play, positive attitude and swag align perfectly with what the Canes fans love.

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