Blocked Kick?

[JugglingReferee]

Originally Posted by AllPurposeGamer

NFL Case Book (2011)

A.R. 12.108 GOAL TENDING

Fourth-and-10 on B30. On an attempted field goal by A2 from the B37, B3 stands under the goal post and jumps above the crossbar and deflects (or catches) the kick so that it does not cross the crossbar, for what would have been, a successful field goal.
Ruling: Option for Team A: Three points awarded to Team A and Kickoff A35; or first-and-10 on B15. Palpably unfair act. (12-3-1-s)
NOTE: If the field goal had been successful despite B3’s action, there would be no foul.

This implies that it was obvious that the FGA would be successful. In the OP, it says "almost long enough" which means that the attempt is not successful. I think Hester (or anyone else) can jump up and grab it in order to return the miss.