Mercury Morris, the legendary running back who was a key member of the undefeated 1972 Dolphins team, has tragically passed away at the age of 77. The Dolphins organization has confirmed Morris’s passing, sending shockwaves through the football community.
Hailing from Pittsburgh, Morris was a third-round draft pick in 1969 from West Texas State. Known for his speed and agility, Morris led the league in rushing touchdowns in 1972 with an impressive 12 touchdowns. That same season, he achieved the milestone of rushing for exactly 1,000 yards, a career high for him. The following year, Morris led the league in yards per attempt, showcasing his exceptional talent on the field.
During his tenure with the Dolphins from 1969 to 1975, Morris was a standout player, earning three Pro Bowl selections. He concluded his career with the Chargers in 1976, leaving a lasting legacy in the NFL.
In 2007, Morris made headlines for his outspoken criticism of the New England Patriots as they pursued a perfect 19-0 season to surpass the Dolphins’ historic achievement. Morris famously questioned the significance of the Patriots’ pursuit, stating, “If 17 trees fell in the forest 35 years ago, did it make a sound? Yes, you just maybe weren’t there to hear it.”
He went on to address the Patriots’ quest for perfection, emphasizing that the conversation should revolve around achieving zero losses rather than focusing solely on 19 wins. Morris bluntly stated, “You can’t craft the conversation around 19 wins. You have to craft the conversation around zero at the end.”
Reflecting on the potential outcomes for the Patriots, Morris drew parallels to the 1985 Bears, who finished with an 18-1 record after suffering a single loss. His remarks captured the competitive spirit and pride that he held for the 1972 Dolphins team, cementing his place in football history.
As we mourn the loss of Mercury Morris, we offer our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and former teammates. His contributions to the game will forever be remembered, making a lasting impact on the sport he loved.
