Cardinals’ DeeJay Dallas First to Score TD from Kick Return in New Format

In a remarkable display of athleticism, Arizona Cardinals running back DeeJay Dallas made history on Sunday by becoming the first player to return a kick for a touchdown under the NFL’s new dynamic kickoff format.

The historic moment occurred with just 8:44 remaining in the game against the Buffalo Bills, as the Cardinals trailed 31-20. Dallas received the kickoff from Bills kicker Tyler Bass at Arizona’s own 4-yard line.

Diving into the action, Dallas navigated through what he described as a “tiny” opening in the initial defense. As he approached the 40-yard line, he skillfully maneuvered between two Bills defenders, setting himself up for an unforgettable run.

With pressure mounting, Arizona cornerback Max Melton managed to disrupt Bass’s pursuit just in time. At the same moment, running back Emari Demercado sprinted between Dallas and Bills safety Mike Edwards, providing a crucial gap for Dallas to exploit. This strategic play allowed Dallas to accelerate the final 40 yards with minimal resistance.

As he neared the end zone with three Bills defenders in close proximity, Dallas took to the air, leaping from the 2-yard line to score. This remarkable play made him the first Cardinal to return a kickoff for a touchdown since David Johnson accomplished the feat in 2015.

Reflecting on the moment post-game, Dallas chuckled about the pressure he felt. “That monkey almost got on my back,” he said, recounting his thoughts as he approached the end zone, “I was like at the 10. I’m like, ‘Oh man. I don’t know. I don’t know.’ But, yeah, the elements, we had the wind pretty well, and they kind of hung the ball up. I caught it, and it wasn’t perfect, but the guys up front made it happen. The rest is history.”

Dallas emphasized his unwavering determination to score. He was well aware of the discussions surrounding the dynamic kickoff format and how it created opportunities. “Yeah, it’s almost like Cover 0,” he explained. “You know if you get past the first line of defense, you’re on to the kicker.”

After the game concluded, Dallas excitedly reached out to his family. His wife and two sons celebrated with uncontained joy upon hearing the news of his record-breaking return.

“It’s amazing,” he expressed, clearly proud of his achievement and the impact it had on his loved ones.

The Cardinals ultimately fell to the Bills with a final score of 34-28, but Dallas’s incredible play will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of the game and a significant milestone in the evolving landscape of the NFL.