Bears coach Lovie Smith still wants Devin Hester returning punts

It seems reasonable for Devin Hester to get less work on special teams as he continues to evolve into a No. 1 receiver. Of the 32 receivers with 60-plus catches last season, only four -- Wes Welker ( Patriots), Steve Breaston (Cardinals), Eddie Royal (Broncos) and DeSean Jackson ( Eagles) -- doubled as the primary punt returners.

But even with a couple of capable rookies at the Bears' disposal, coach Lovie Smith has no plans to give Hester a break from punt-return duties.

"No way," he said. "Devin has the chance to score every time. If one of those [rookies] is a better returner than Devin, then we will put them back there.

"Devin can be a full-time receiver and handle one other return. And we're very comfortable with him doing that."

Regardless, don't count out Juaquin Iglesias, Johnny Knox and D.J. Moore contributing on special teams. All three saw action in the return game during rookie mini-camp, which concluded Sunday.

"D.J. Moore is probably the most polished [punt returner] right now," special teams coordinator Dave Toub said. "Johnny Knox's got potential. Obviously, the speed is there. He just has to catch more punts. It takes a lot of work. And then Juaquin, he's really a kick returner. He's really a good kick returner, when you go back and watch his college tape."

Maybe the plan is to give kick returner Danieal Manning more rest so he can settle into his role on defense -- nickel back or free safety.
(chicagotribune.com)