Mercury Morris, key player in Dolphins’ perfect season, dies at 77

Miami Gardens, Florida – Eugene “Mercury” Morris, a celebrated member of the undefeated 1972 Miami Dolphins team, has passed away at the age of 77. The news was confirmed by the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.

Known for his remarkable talent on the football field, Morris was a vital part of a backfield that helped the Dolphins secure two Super Bowl championships. His family released a poignant statement, highlighting that his “talent and passion left an indelible mark on the sport.”

Beyond his athletic achievements, Morris was cherished as a devoted father, a caring brother, and a steadfast friend. His influence reached far beyond football, impacting many lives during his time in Miami.

Morris played as the starting halfback in a formidable trio of running backs, teaming up with legends like Larry Csonka and Jim Kiick under coach Don Shula. Together, they led the Dolphins to victory in the 1972 and 1973 NFL seasons, establishing one of the most iconic eras in the team’s history.

During those championship seasons, Morris emerged as a key player, leading the team in rushing touchdowns. He finished the 1972 season with 12 touchdowns, which was the highest in the NFL that year, and followed it up with 10 in 1973. His remarkable stats included a career-best 1,000 rushing yards in 1972, followed by 954 yards in 1973, averaging an extraordinary 6.4 yards per carry.

Morris often expressed his gratitude for the direction and motivation provided by coach Shula. In a 2008 interview, he reflected on Shula’s work ethic and leadership, which resonated with the players, many of whom came from middle-class backgrounds. Morris appreciated how Shula instilled a sense of purpose in his players, emphasizing the value of hard work.

The 1972 Dolphins hold a special place in NFL history as the only team to finish an entire season undefeated and untied, an accomplishment that Morris took immense pride in. He often clarified that the Dolphins were not hoping for other teams to lose in order to maintain their unique record.

In a 2015 social media post, he humorously expressed that there was no celebrations with champagne each time an unbeaten team was defeated. Instead, he joked about drinking ginger ale, reflecting his lighthearted character. His humor remained a hallmark of his personality, even when discussing challenging times for the Dolphins.

In the midst of the challenges the Dolphins faced, including a disappointing 2007 season, Morris’s ability to rally spirit and humor around the team never faltered. He quipped about the team’s struggles, showcasing his unwavering loyalty and knack for comedy.

After retiring from football, Morris faced significant personal challenges, including a 1982 conviction related to cocaine trafficking. He openly battled these hardships, revealing that he used drugs to cope with lingering injuries from his playing days. His conviction was later overturned by the Florida Supreme Court in 1986, after which he transformed his experience into a platform for motivational speaking, advising others against drug use.

In his 1998 book “Against The Grain,” Morris reflected on his journey, stating that while his prison time was incredibly difficult, it ultimately shaped his character and resilience once he regained his freedom.

Mercury Morris was inducted into the Dolphins’ Walk of Fame in 2013, and he remains a cherished figure in the franchise’s history. He ranks fourth on the Miami Dolphins’ all-time rushing list, with a total of 3,877 yards, trailing only Csonka, Ricky Williams, and Ronnie Brown.

Morris’s legacy as a football player and community figure lives on, remembered not just for his athletic prowess but also for his deep connection with fans and the impact he made throughout his life.

Source: AP