"Give it to the Stud." Why not use our greatest threats for returns? Steve Smith and Stewart seem best suited to provide for explosive returns.

The notion that we have to save or protect Smith is narrow thinking; what are we saving him for? The object is to gain yards and score touchdowns - whether by passing, running or returning. If Smith or Stewart can get us extra yards on returns, on average, plus provide the break-away threat, why fool around?

Risk? Is not sending a receiver across the middle of a field for a pass for which he could be blind-sided just as great or a greater risk than returning a kick? Let's not lock ourselves into a box.

Rest? If returning kicks takes up more of a player's energy, then give Smith more of a rest during regular downs, especially when we're going to run (and the other team knows it).

What am I missing?

nothing, I've written on this before, league wide history, college and high school stats as well overwhelmingly proof it's actually less dangerous, yet announcers emphasize the myth, and coaches unfortuantely are trained that way and are slow to change.
Rest? these are pro athletes and the average play last 6 seconds (12 if a kickoff return for touchdown) the average amount of offense plays is 60. 6 seconds times 60 is 360 seconds or 6 minutes, can someone who makes 1 to 3 million a year not be conditioned enough to play 6 minutes! ( I know it was a long time ago of 'glory days' but I played every minute of every high school game and all special teams and regular play in college and don't ever really remember being winded except in practice or two minute drill)

Man, Fox bet not let Stewart return kickoffs with his toe. He not going to do anything