The NFL saw a record 22 percent of kickoffs returned last season, and only four of those were returned for scores. The NFL has made significant changes to its kickoff rules for the 2024 season to increase the incentive for more players to return kickoffs — while limiting touchbacks and injuries.
In Week 1 of the new kickoff format, Cardinals returner DeeJay Dallas sparked the comeback with a thrilling 96-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
THE FIRST DYNAMIC KICKOFF RETURN TOUCH DOWN.
DEEJAY DALLAS. 96 yards.
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He cut three tackles at the 40-yard line and charged into the end zone, diving past kicker Tyler Bass to score. The Bills, who led 31-20 with 8:44 remaining, regretted kicking deep. The Cardinals then took advantage of a successful two-point conversion from James Conner, closing the gap to 31-28.
The touchdown marked Dallas’ first career return in his NFL and collegiate career, although he has good experience, having returned punts in all three of his seasons in the league.
Although the new rule got off to a slow start, the first Sunday of the NFL season still provided excitement with three kickoff returns of more than 50 yards. In 2023, there were only 10 returns of 50 yards or more.
The Bills maintained their lead and started the season 1-0 as they defeated the Cardinals 34-28. Buffalo will take on AFC East rival Miami on the road during Week 2 of “Thursday Night Football.”
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(Photo: Brooke Sutton/Getty Images)