Devin Hester got penalty for paying tribute to Deion Sanders (Video)

Devin Hester surpassed Deion Sanders for most return touchdowns in NFL history during the Atlanta Falcons’ win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday night. Hester’s 62-yard punt return score in the second quarter gave him sole possession of first on the all-time list with 20 return touchdowns. Hester paid tribute to Sanders on his way to the end zone, and he was penalized 15 yards for it.

[WATCH: Devin Hester breaks Deion Sanders’ record with 63-yard return TD]

Hester broke out Deion’s trademark high-step routine as he was sprinting down the sideline, and an official flagged him for taunting. I’m sure it was worth it, especially given the way the Falcons were blowing out the Bucs.

Sanders got emotional with Hester during a postgame interview on NFL Network.

“I’m overcome with emotions right now,” the Hall of Famer told Hester, via ESPN.com. “Because I love you as a man, as a father, as a husband. I remember the beginning, man. I love you, dude. And I’m so proud of you, man. I’m so proud of you. You know that.”

Hester has now returned 14 punts, five kickoffs and one missed field goal for scores. He might end up padding his lead over Deion before he calls it a career.

Video via GIFD Sports