sentences:  Podlesh recorded a 40.4 yard net average in the 2011 season, the best average by a Chicago Bear since 1966, despite injuries to special teamers Patrick Mannelly, Brian Iwuh, Kyle Adams, and Anthony Walters, as well as Chris Conte, Major Wright, and Kahlil Bell becoming starters, and Sam Hurd getting released.His 43.85 yard gross average was the best of his career, and was the third highest in team history, behind Todd Sauerbrun's 44.8 in 1996 and Brad Maynard's 44.2 in 2006.In the second game of the 2012 preseason, Podlesh left the game with a left hip flexor that he sustained while attempting to tackle Washington Redskins returner Brandon Banks, who eventually returned the punt 91 yards for a touchdown.