Miami Dolphins Running Back Legend Mercury Morris Passes Away at 77
ICARO Media Group
Miami Dolphins running back legend Mercury Morris, known for his speed and agility on the field, passed away at the age of 77 on Saturday night. Morris was a crucial part of the Dolphins' backfield triumvirate in the early 1970s, alongside Larry Csonka and Jim Kiick. Together, they helped lead Miami to two Super Bowls and achieve the only perfect season in NFL history.
During his six-year tenure with the Dolphins from 1969 to 1975, Morris earned Pro Bowl honors three times and became a vital player in Coach Don Shula's lineup. Morris' speed and dynamic play style set him apart from his powerful teammates, Csonka and Kiick, and he quickly became an integral part of the team's rushing attack. His unique abilities made him a valuable asset, especially during the Dolphins' remarkable undefeated season.
In the 1972 Super Bowl against the Dallas Cowboys, Morris did not have a single handoff, but he made significant contributions during the regular season, leading the league with 12 rushing touchdowns. Alongside Csonka, Morris was one of the first two players on the same team to each gain over 1,000 rushing yards in a season. The Dolphins' offensive line, featuring Hall of Famers like Larry Little and Jim Langer, provided ample support for Morris, Csonka, and Kiick to excel on the field.
After his time with the Dolphins, Morris faced challenges with injuries and off-field issues, including a well-publicized legal case related to cocaine trafficking. Despite these setbacks, Morris persevered, working to clear his name and eventually finding success as a public speaker after serving time in prison. His impact on the field and his determination off the field resonated with fans and left a lasting legacy in the football world.