Miami Dolphins star Mercury Morris, who was a key player on the 1972 undefeated team, has passed away at 77 years old, his family confirmed in a statement (Miami Herald).
Morris was a former third-round pick out of West Texas State in the 1969 NFL Draft, and went on to have an impressive career as both a running back and speedy return man.
The Dolphins released a statement paying tribute to one of the all-time greats.
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dolphins great Mercury Morris. pic.twitter.com/V2t8SFNVvf
— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) September 22, 2024
"It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Eugene 'Mercury' Morris, legendary Miami Dolphins running back and cherished member of the NFL family, at the age of 77. Known for his electrifying speed and dynamic play, Mercury was a cornerstone of the Dolphins' historic 1972 undefeated season and a two-time Super Bowl champion. His talent and passion left an indelible mark on the sport, and his three Pro Bowl selections only solidified his place among football's greats."
To point out, the year the Dolphins went 16-0 and won the Super Bowl (VII), Morris had 12 rushing touchdowns. Furthermore, this set a precedent in the NFL as he and his counterpart Larry Csonka were the first ever running back duo to each rush for 1,000 yards in the same season.
Notably, in view of Morris' stats, he was up there with some of best to ever put on a Dolphins uniform, while winning a Super Bowl in both the 1972 and '73 season. That is to say, the kid from Pittsburgh racked up 3,877 rushing yards, which ranks him fourth all-time in franchise history, in addition to contributing 29 rushing touchdowns (5th) and 2,947 kick return yards (3rd), with an average of 26.5 yards per return.
Not to mention, Morris also has the record for most kick off returns for touchdowns on 111 attempts.
Related: Jim Kiick, Dolphins' Perfect Season Running Back, Dead At 73
