Mercury Morris, a operating again and returner on the Miami Dolphins’ undefeated 1972 Tremendous Bowl staff, has died, in keeping with a member of the family. He was 77.
The Miami Herald confirmed Morris’ loss of life by the Dolphins.
“It’s with deep disappointment that we announce the passing of Eugene ‘Mercury’ Morris, legendary Miami Dolphins operating again and revered member of the NFL household, on the age of 77,” his son GhostWridah, a Miami-based music artist born Troy – Jeffrey Morris posted on X. “Identified for his electrifying velocity and dynamic play, Mercury was a cornerstone of the Dolphins’ historic 1972 undefeated season and two-time Tremendous Bowl champions. His expertise and fervour left an indelible mark on the game, and his three Professional Bowl alternatives solely cemented his place amongst soccer greats.
“Off the sector, Mercury was a loyal father, loving brother, loyal pal and pillar of the neighborhood. His presence prolonged far past soccer as he touched the lives of many throughout his time in Miami.
Morris was a third-round pick of West Texas A&M, and he performed for the Dolphins from 1969-75, serving to to type what later grew to become often called the “good backfield” together with Larry Csonka and Jim Kiik.
Morris was a three-time Professional Bowler and two-time Tremendous Bowl champion with the Dolphins, together with the staff’s repeat championship in 1973.
Morris rushed for precisely 1,000 yards and scored a league-best 12 dashing touchdowns in the course of the 1972 common season because the Dolphins went 14-0 earlier than successful three extra postseason video games for the one undefeated season in NFL historical past.
Csonka additionally rushed for 1,117 yards that yr, making Miami the primary staff ever to boast two 1,000-yard rushers in the identical season.
Morris was traded to the Chargers in 1976 and performed one season in San Diego earlier than retiring.
In 1982, the Pittsburgh native was convicted of a drug-trafficking cost that was later overturned, however he spent greater than three years in jail below a plea deal. He later served as a motivational speaker discussing his time in jail.
Morris is survived by 5 kids — Geno, Maceo, Tiffany, Troy and Elliott — and three siblings, in keeping with the household’s assertion.
