Dohnte Meyers Returned Kickoff 81 Yards Against Dolphins
Bengals player Dohnte Meyers opened the Week 5 game in Miami with an 81-yard kickoff return.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Football
Dohnte Meyers made a major impact by returning a kickoff 81 yards during the NFL Week 5 game at Hard Rock Stadium. The play occurred as the Miami Dolphins hosted the Cincinnati Bengals.
Why it matters
The performance provided a spark during a high-stakes divisional matchup in the NFL season. It occurred as the Cincinnati Bengals, entering with a 2-2 record, faced a Miami Dolphins team struggling at 0-4.
Dohnte Meyers recorded an 81-yard kickoff return, while Mike Gesicki scored on a four-yard touchdown catch. The Bengals entered the contest with a 2-2 record, and the Dolphins remained winless at 0-4.
The players
Dohnte Meyers
He is a professional football player for the Cincinnati Bengals who secured a roster spot in August 2026.
Mike Gesicki
He is an active NFL player who scored a touchdown on a four-yard reception in the Week 5 matchup.
Joe Burrow
He is the starting quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals who threw a touchdown pass during the game.
Ja'Marr Chase
He is a wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals who was active for the contest against the Dolphins.
Tee Higgins
He is a wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals who played in the Week 5 game.
The details
The highlight occurred early in the contest with Meyers taking the kickoff for the long return. Later in the game, quarterback Joe Burrow connected with Mike Gesicki for a four-yard touchdown pass, with Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins also active for the Bengals.
Timeline
August 2026: The Bengals informed Dohnte Meyers he made the 53-man roster.
October 11, 2026: The Bengals played the Dolphins during NFL Week 5.
Season Trajectory
This matchup significantly impacts the standing of both teams as they navigate the early portion of the 2026 NFL season. A loss for the Dolphins would exacerbate their 0-4 start, while a win for the Bengals helps them climb above a .500 record.
Fantasy managers monitoring the Bengals' offensive production should note the success of the connection between Joe Burrow and Mike Gesicki. The long return by Dohnte Meyers provides potential for increased special teams value in leagues that track kickoff return yardage.
The takeaway
Special teams plays like the 81-yard return can shift momentum quickly in tight divisional games. Consistent execution from key playmakers remains essential for teams looking to maintain a winning record through the first five weeks.
Further reading
For more coverage on the team's season progress, visit Miami Football.
