WATCH: Richard Hightower eager to showcase new things in return game

Tony Crumpton · Senior Editor · 3 hours ago

Special teams coordinator Richard Hightower met with the media on Monday at Halas Hall.

Watch his press conference below:

Video summary/cliff notes:

(00:00) Hightower says the Bears have been closely studying the new kickoff rules and are excited to roll out creative return-game strategies during the regular season — nothing flashy will be shown in preseason.

(00:45) Joint practices are extremely valuable for players and coaches since both teams’ staffs evaluate performance. Intensity is high, simulating a real game atmosphere.

(01:27) Teaching rookies is more complex now — in addition to punt return adjustments (different in NFL vs. college), kick return differences must also be learned. Bears quiz rookies, use league videos, and test rules knowledge regularly.

(02:27) Injured players returning to practice are “ready to rock,” and Hightower focuses on coaching them when they’re on the field. Backups like Luke benefited from unexpected playing time.

(03:09) Travis Homer and rookie Kyle stand out in quizzes for their sharp attention to detail and competitiveness.

(04:03) Joint practice planning requires detailed coordination between special teams coaches — deciding on tempo, field usage, ball spotting, and field goal drills. Hightower has a long-standing relationship with Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel.

(05:10) Soldier Field practices are crucial for returners and kickers to experience wind conditions. Simulating game-day warmups and routines helps prepare players.

(06:14) Punter Trenton Gill’s development is tracked analytically year-to-year. His performance has improved significantly, with punts booming beyond returners’ reach.

(06:58) Hightower praises head coach Ben Johnson as a “damn good” coach, comparable to top-tier Super Bowl-winning coaches he’s worked with, citing attention to detail and deep involvement in all aspects of the team.

(08:56) Johnson's direct involvement in special teams — attending meetings, asking if more time is needed, and supporting all departments — is “worth a million bucks” for the coaching staff.