"Criminal Minds" is set to kick off a thrilling new season later this month that will include new murder mysteries and, for the first time, reoccurring villains.

Unlike past seasons of the long running CBS series, executive producer Erica Messer told TVLine that Season 11 will have a "much more serialized" direction. She explained that throughout the season the elite squad of FBI agents will focus on an investigation into "The Dirty Dozen," which is a network of hit men. "The Dirty Dozen" case will be introduced to fans in the season premiere, but it "really won't culminate until the end of the season," said the showrunner.

"It's a crazy arc," said actor Matthew Gray Gubler, who plays Spencer Reid. "It's exciting, spooky, team members might be in peril," he added.

The EP also spoke about actress Aisha Tyler who was cast as psychologist Dr. Tara Lewis in light of Jennifer Love Hewitt's departure last season and A.J. Cook's temporary absence. Messer praised Tyler as a great addition to the show who will fill in for Cook while she is on maternity leave.

"Aisha is such a smart person that playing a really smart character is obviously second nature to her," says Messer.

"Comedians make the best dramatic actors, and that's true for Aisha especially," Gubler added.

Messer also teased that Amber Stevens will reprise her role as Rossi's daughter Joy, who was introduced in Episode 7 of Season 10. "That will be a fun thread to pick up," she said, adding, "We would love to have her on a couple times a year."

According to Zap2it, the official show description for the first episode of the new season states that: "The 11th season begins with the BAU interviewing different candidates to join their ranks in the wake of Kate's departure, including a forensic psychologist, Dr. Tara Lewis, who is eager to assist their efforts. Also, the BAU hunts for a serial killer who leaves behind distinctive evidence that points to someone intent on revenge,"

Season 11 of "Criminal Minds" will premiere on Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 9 p.m. EDT on CBS.