Martz can help Devin Hester, Muhammad says

Former Bears receiver Muhsin Muhammad said he believes new offensive coordinator Mike Martz can help Devin Hester's development as a receiver.

In an interview during the Waddle and Silvy Show on ESPN 1500, Muhammad likened Hester to Steve Smith, the Carolina Panthers Pro Bowl receiver, who started his career as a return specialist.

"One of the things that we did in Carolina (for Smith) is we kept it simple," said Muhammad, who played with both Smith and Hester. "You don't need a lot of plays or be complicated with what you're doing in order to make plays and be successful.

"I think Mike Martz is a guy that can come in and create opportunities for Devin Hester make it simple for him and just make him play fast and not have him think as much on the field. So if that occurs he can be that guy. I mean he has all the physical tools to be that guy."

Muhammad admitted he wasn't "that big of a fan of Ron Turner," and he called the hiring of Martz a "great move."

But Muhammad took a swipe at the Bears recent history with receivers, noting how he, Justin Gage and Bobby Engram had success after leaving Chicago.

"I would love to see Devin Hester be the number on guy. I would love to see Devin Hester have a successful career in Chicago," Muhammad said. "So prove me wrong is what I'm saying."

Muhammad spoke glowingly of Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, recalling a game when he was with the Panthers and Cutler was still in Denver.
"Jay Cutler just came out and flat out threw the ball," Muhammad recalled. "He was dropping dimes in the holes. I mean he was threading the needle. He has all the intangibles."

Interestingly, though, Muhammad may have been referring to a Dec. 14, 2008, game against the Broncos in Charlotte. The Panthers won that game 30-10, and Cutler was just 21 of 33 for 172 yards with one touchdown and one interception.

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(suntimes.com)