Eugene "Mercury" Morris, a key player in the Miami Dolphins' undefeated 1972 season and two-time Super Bowl champion, has died at the age of 77.
AP News reported that the Miami Dolphins announced Morris' passing on Sunday. The three-time Pro Bowl selection was a vital part of the Dolphins' star-studded backfield during their back-to-back championship seasons in 1972 and 1973.
Morris' family released a statement highlighting his impact both on and off the field, describing him as a "devoted father, a loving brother, a loyal friend, and a pillar in the community."
The Dolphins organization also paid tribute to Morris, emphasizing his dynamic play and record-breaking performances.
Morris began his NFL journey with the Dolphins in 1969, making an immediate impact by returning a kickoff 105 yards for a touchdown in his first game. This feat still stands as the longest kickoff return in team history.
As part of a formidable running back trio alongside Larry Csonka and Jim Kiick, Morris played a crucial role in the Dolphins' success during the early 1970s. He led the team in rushing touchdowns in both the 1972 and 1973 seasons, with 12 and 10 touchdowns respectively.
The 1972 season was particularly memorable for Morris, as he rushed for a career-high 1,000 yards, contributing significantly to the Dolphins' perfect 17-0 record. The following year, he averaged an impressive 6.4 yards per carry, leading the league in that category.
Morris' impact on the Dolphins organization extended beyond his playing days. He remains fourth on the team's all-time rushing list with 3,877 yards, behind only Larry Csonka, Ricky Williams, and Ronnie Brown.
After retiring from football, Morris faced personal struggles, including a conviction on cocaine trafficking charges in 1982. However, his conviction was overturned by the Florida Supreme Court in 1986. Morris subsequently became a motivational speaker, using his experiences to discourage drug use.
Reflecting on his journey, Morris wrote in his 1998 book "Against The Grain":
Was I bitter? Not really. I would not recommend three days in jail to anyone, much less three years. But I must be honest: I needed to go through what I did to develop the character I had when I became a free man.
Morris was known for his pride in being part of the only undefeated team in NFL history. He often clarified misconceptions about the 1972 Dolphins, including the myth that they celebrated when undefeated teams lost their first game of the season.
The Dolphins organization recognized Morris' contributions by inducting him into their Walk of Fame in 2013. His former teammate, Larry Csonka, expressed his sorrow at Morris' passing, calling it "a very sad day for me and our Dolphin family."
Eugene "Mercury" Morris leaves behind a legacy as a crucial player in the Miami Dolphins' most successful era. His contributions to the team's undefeated season and multiple Super Bowl victories solidify his place in NFL history. Morris' impact extended beyond the football field, as he used his personal experiences to inspire others and make a positive impact in his community.
