Hester redshirted in 2012. He then played in 47 games from 2013-2016, recording 161 tackles, 13 sacks, 4 pass deflections, 4 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries. Hester was named third-team All-MAC in 2013 and second-team All-MAC in 2014 and 2016.[2][3]
Hester was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the seventh round, 244th overall, in the 2017 NFL draft.[6][7] On September 3, 2018, Hester was waived by the Raiders.[8]
Philadelphia Eagles (first stint)
On September 7, 2018, Hester was signed to the practice squad of the Philadelphia Eagles.[9] He was promoted to the active roster on October 2, 2018.[10] On January 6, 2019, during a wild card game against the Chicago Bears, he tipped a potential game-winning 43-yard field goal by Cody Parkey, a play now infamously known as the Double Doink, to help the Eagles win 16–15.[11] Hester was waived during final roster cuts on August 31, 2019.[12]
Hester signed with the Green Bay Packers on May 1, 2020.[14] He was placed on the COVID-19 reserve list by the team on July 30, 2020,[15] and was activated on August 17, 2020.[16] He was waived/injured on September 5, 2020,[17] and subsequently placed on injured reserve the next day.[18] He was waived with an injury settlement on September 10.[19]
Philadelphia Eagles (second stint)
On November 9, 2020, the Eagles signed Hester to the practice squad.[20] He signed a reserve/future contract with the Eagles on January 4, 2021,[21] and was released on March 9, 2021.[22]
Buffalo Bills
On May 20, 2021, the Buffalo Bills signed Hester to a contract after a successful tryout.[23] On August 27, 2021, he was placed on injured reserve.[24] He was released with an injury settlement on September 8, 2021.[25]
Carolina Panthers
On November 3, 2021, Hester was signed to the Carolina Panthers practice squad.[26] He was released on November 16.[27]
Seattle Sea Dragons
Hester signed with the Seattle Sea Dragons of the XFL prior to the 2023 season. Hester made the opening day roster, but was released on April 5, 2023.[28]