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Devin Hester sets NFL record for return touchdowns (video)

Devin Hester caught a punt in the 2nd quarter of the Falcons matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and after juking several Bucs, was able to high-step to the endzone for the record-breaking score.

Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

The all-time record for touchdowns via kickoff and punt returns now belongs to Devin Hester. The receiver got most of those in his days with the Chicago Bears; Hester broke the record Thursday night while playing for the Atlanta Falcons.

Hester caught a punt in the second quarter of their matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and after juking several Bucs, was able to high-step to the endzone for the record-breaking score.

H/T to Fansided for the GIF

With that 62-yard punt return, Hester broke a tie with Deion Sanders at 19 career touchdown returns. Hester now has the record with 20. He paid tribute to Sanders with an extended high step into the end zone, drawing a flag for taunting in the process.

Hester also has added a 20-yard touchdown run as part of Atlanta’s 35-0 first-half lead, as they sprinted out to an easy lead over the Buccaneers in the first half of this Thursday Night Football, thanks in large part to Tampa Bay deciding not to show up.