Toub credits opponents for Hester's lack of TD returns

Special-teams coordinator Dave Toub said there's no reason to worry just because Devin Hester doesn't have any kick-return touchdowns this year after getting 11 in his first two seasons.

Toub agrees that maybe Hester's first two seasons spoiled fans and created unreal expectations, but he's still the same talent.

"He's a special guy," Toub said. "I don't think it's over. We've got a lot of season left, and he's going to get his returns before the season's done."

Hester's 22.6-yard kickoff-return average is in the vicinity of his career average of 23.2, but his 5.4-yard punt-return average is way off his career average of 14.1. Still, Toub says nothing has changed.

"I see the same guy," Toub said. "It's a matter of touches, not the amount of games. I think that's the most important thing. How many touches has he had and how many opportunities?"

Hester has had just 11 opportunities to return punts and 14 chances on kickoffs.

"Teams are doing a good job punting the ball high," Toub said. "They're doing a good job punting the ball directionally, moving the ball around on kickoff returns, squib kicks, different things that change the timing and spacing. Those are all issues (but) eventually we're going to bust one.

"Sure, he's due. But teams are smart. They know Devin Hester is Devin Hester, and at any time he can break one on you, and they're still showing him all the respect they did last year."

Injury update: Punter Brad Maynard (left hamstring), cornerback Charles Tillman (shoulder), wide receiver Brandon Lloyd (knee) and safety Danieal Manning (hamstring) did not practice Thursday. Manning and Lloyd are not expected to play, Tillman is questionable and Maynard is likely to play.

Nine players were limited at practice: wide receivers Marty Booker (back), Rashied Davis, (knee) and Devin Hester (toe), defensive tackles Tommie Harris (knee), Marcus Harrison (ankle) and Israel Idonije (ankle), cornerbacks Trumaine McBride (shoulder) and Nate Vasher (wrist) and linebacker Nick Roach (shoulder).

Cornerback Marcus Hamilton (heel) and running back Matt Forte returned to full participation.