If anybody knows Devin Hester the best, it’s Deion Sanders! From his talent to his aspirations, there’s nothing that the CU Buffs head coach isn’t aware of. And he’s always there for his 41-year-old brother from another mother to encourage him and his family. Now that he’s officially a Pro Football Hall of Famer, Deion Sanders brings up an anecdote to inspire the young Buffs player. 

Three years of wait put to an end. It was an emotion-filled, once-in-a-lifetime moment for Devin Hester when he saw his name etched on the golden jacket. A moment that took him right back to the one that had him in similar “I made it” tears: when he bought his first house. One that the top-tier head coaches like Deion Sanders use to fuel his players on the field. Hester has truly made it.

On the Folsom Field training grounds, Deion Sanders had one player to set an example for his son, as Reach The People Media recorded on August 4. “I went somewhere last night,” Sanders said, referencing his attendance at Hester’s Hall of Famer ceremony. “You know who I went to see,” Sanders said further. “One guy. He had one thought in his mind: house.”

Deion Sanders continued, “He was not trying to just get 10, 12, 15 house and the thing about him, he had everybody on that return team believing if they make their block house. That’s who he was. That’s what I need. That’s what we want.” This narration goes deeper than surface level as Coach Prime used Hester’s commitment to buying his dream house as an example for Shedeur Sanders and Co. to follow. After all, when you set a specific goal for yourself, it’s easier to reach than numerous cluttered goals. And this focused mindset is what earned Hester his rightful place among the legends. 

Devin Hester’s patience is rewarded at last

Tears of joy were shed when Hester was called to receive his gold jacket and Deion Sanders’ long and warm embrace was one highlight of the event. He was honored for his contribution to the Chicago Bears with whom he played for 11 seasons and where he broke several NFL records. These records include 20 career return TDs, 19 kick-return TDs, and 14 punt-return TDs.

When he received the news about his selection in February, Hester was filled with gratitude for his achievement. While he deserved the honor, he conceded how he felt it was impossible as a kid. He said, “I’m just blessed and honored to be the first returner… This is bigger than everything. This is not only a dream, this is something that I felt as a kid was impossible. I never thought about me being in the Hall of Fame… It’s like hitting the lotto.” Kudos to Hester who became the first returner to be inducted into the Hall of Fame!