Marquette King, a name etched in the annals of NFL punting history, is on a determined quest to return to the league. At 35 years old, King is no stranger to the highs and lows of professional football. His journey, marked by remarkable achievements and unfortunate setbacks, is a testament to his perseverance and unwavering belief in his abilities.
Early NFL Career and Impact
Marquette King began his NFL career with the Oakland Raiders in 2012. His tenure with the Raiders spanned from 2012 to 2017, during which he firmly established himself as one of the league's premier punters. King led the NFL in punting yards in 2014 and delivered a career-long punt of 72 yards, showcasing his powerful leg and precision. Over the course of 84 games with the Raiders, King accumulated an impressive 446 punts for 20,822 yards, with 163 kicks pinning opponents inside the 20-yard line.
Transition to the Denver Broncos
In 2018, King signed a significant three-year, $7 million contract with the Denver Broncos. However, his stint in Denver was cut short by a thigh injury that placed him on injured reserve in October of the same year. Following his recovery, King was released by the Broncos, a move that many saw as a premature end to his NFL career.
Finding Success Beyond the NFL
Undeterred by his release from the Broncos, King continued to showcase his punting prowess in other leagues. He led the XFL in punting yards in 2020, reaffirming his status as an elite punter. Most recently, King has been named the All-UFL punter with the Arlington Renegades and became an XFL champion in 2023. These achievements underscore his consistent performance and adaptability in different competitive environments.
The Road Back to the NFL
Despite his success outside the NFL, King has never wavered in his ambition to return to the league. "You can't tell me that there are 32 punters better than me. All-UFL Punter in a league where punting isn't easy at all! I'm manifesting a call from an NFL team again soon," King declared with conviction. As the upcoming NFL season approaches, King's optimism and readiness to seize any opportunity that comes his way are palpable. He has even taken to social media, posting videos of his punts to remind teams of his capabilities.
Looking Ahead to 2024
King, who aims for 2024 to be the year he reclaims his place in the NFL, carries with him a wealth of experience, determination, and skill. While his journey has been marked by significant challenges, his unwavering belief in his abilities and his consistent performance at every opportunity underscore his readiness for a triumphant return.
Marquette King's story is one of resilience and relentless pursuit of excellence. As the NFL season edges closer, all eyes will be on whether this seasoned punter can again find his footing in the league that first witnessed his exceptional talent. For King, the journey back to the NFL is more than a personal goal—it's a testament to his enduring legacy and commitment to the sport he loves.