Mercury Morris, member of 'perfect' 1972 Dolphins, dies at 77

Mercury Morris, member of ‘perfect’ 1972 Dolphins, dies at 77,

Remembering Running back Mercury Morris: A Legend of the 1972 Dolphins

The Life and Legacy of a Football Icon

Eugene “Mercury” Morris, the dynamic running back who was a key player on the undefeated 1972 Miami Dolphins, has passed away at the age of 77. Known for his remarkable speed and agility, Morris played eight seasons in the NFL, cementing his place in football history.

A Stellar Career with the Dolphins

Morris joined the Dolphins after being selected in the third round of the 1969 NFL Draft out of West Texas A&M. Initially making his mark as a kick returner, he led the league in kickoff return yardage during his rookie season and famously returned a kickoff for 105 yards a touchdown that showcased his explosive talent.

A Dominant Backfield

Teaming up with fellow running backs Larry Csonka and Jim Kiick, Morris played a crucial role in the Dolphins’ back-to-back Super Bowl victories under coach Don Shula in 1972 and 1973. His best season came during Miami’s perfect 1972 campaign, where he rushed for exactly 1,000 yards. This achievement made him and Csonka the first teammates in NFL history to each rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season. That year, Morris also led the league with 12 rushing touchdowns, contributing to the Dolphins’ historic 17-0 record capped off by a 14-7 victory over Washington in Super Bowl VII.

In 1973, he continued to shine, amassing 954 rushing yards at an impressive 6.4 yards per carry, earning his second Pro Bowl selection and helping the Dolphins secure a second consecutive championship.

A Lasting Impact

Morris concluded his playing career with the San Diego Chargers in 1976, leaving behind a legacy of 4,133 rushing yards and 35 total touchdowns. After retiring, he became one of the most prominent voices among the undefeated Dolphins, celebrating their unique place in NFL history. He famously coined the term “Perfectville,” reflecting the team’s unparalleled achievement and frequently defended their legacy against comparisons with other great NFL teams.

As Morris once stated, “I played on the best team ever. We ruled the football world.” His contributions to the game and his indomitable spirit will be remembered by fans and players alike. The legacy of Mercury Morris, a true football legend, will forever resonate in the annals of NFL history.