Former Bombers DB Dee Alford Nearly Returns 109-Yard Missed Field Goal for Touchdown

Former Winnipeg Blue Bombers defensive back Dee Alford caught the attention of the NFL with his spectacular near-return for a touchdown for the Atlanta Falcons.

Sunday saw some thrilling performances from Canadian players and former CFL players, but Atlanta Falcons defensive back Dee Alford very nearly had one of the best plays of the NFL season.

Atlanta trailed Chicago 21-7 late in the second quarter when the Bears' kicker missed the field goal attempt. Alford returned it to the Bears 13-yard line, but the play had the potential to be a 109-yard touchdown, which would have tied for the longest play in NFL history.

Alford did not record any defensive stats, but he did have two punt returns for 27 yards. His 2023 stats include 41 tackles, six pass deflections and one fumble recovery.

FALCONS ALMOST PULLED OFF A KICK-6

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— NFL (@NFL) December 31, 2023

Alford joined the Falcons in 2022 after a strong 2021 campaign in the CFL. He finished the season with 48 defensive tackles, four interceptions and one forced fumble while winning the Grey Cup with Winnipeg and earning CFL All-Star honors. 

He attended college at Tusculum, where he recorded 140 tackles and 10 interceptions in four seasons. His 40 pass deflections in his career are a school record.

Atlanta’s loss leaves the team one game out of first place in the NFC South ahead of its regular-season closer against the New Orleans Saints.

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