Marquette King: A Punter's Return to the Gridiron
Marquette King has been absent from the NFL spotlight for a while, but he’s on a determined quest to make a triumphant return. Known for his powerful and precise punting, King’s journey in the football world has seen him travel through various leagues and overcome numerous obstacles. Now, at 35 years old, he is ready to prove he still has what it takes.
King began his NFL career with the Oakland Raiders in 2012. Over his tenure with the Raiders, which lasted until 2017, King became not just a reliable member of the team but a standout performer in his own right. The highlight of his NFL career came in 2014 when he led the league in punting yards. During his time with the Raiders, he played in 84 games, producing 446 punts for a total of 20,822 yards and 163 punts inside the 20-yard line. His prowess on the field was further exemplified by a career-long punt of 72 yards.
In 2018, King signed a three-year, $7 million deal with the Denver Broncos, only to be placed on injured reserve due to a thigh injury in October of the same year. Unfortunately, his time with the Broncos was cut short after this setback, leading to his release from the team.
While many might see such an injury as a career-ending event, King didn’t let this deter him. Instead, he continued to refine his craft, participating in other leagues, including the XFL. In 2020, he led the XFL in punting yards, further proving his exceptional abilities. Not content with just leading statistics, King also became an XFL champion in 2023, showing his championship mindset and winning spirit.
Most recently, King has been named the All-UFL punter with the Arlington Renegades. This designation underscores his continued dominance in the position. However, despite these accolades, King was not among those who transitioned from the UFL to the NFL after its inaugural season, a fact that he remains undeterred by.
Marquette King's confidence in his abilities has never wavered. He recently posted a video on social media showcasing one of his punts, capturing the attention of fans and possibly NFL scouts. King firmly believes he belongs in the NFL, stating, "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."
As the new NFL season approaches, the league is bound to take notice of King’s relentless dedication and undeniable talent. His eyes are set on 2024, aiming for it to be the year he reclaims his place in the NFL. His journey is not just about returning to the gridiron but also about proving that with hard work and resilience, comeback stories can indeed have successful endings.
Marquette King's career has been a testament to his skills, perseverance, and passion for the game. Whether it’s his early days at Oakland, his brief stint with the Broncos, or his impressive performances in the XFL and UFL, King has showcased the qualities that make a remarkable athlete. The football world will undoubtedly be watching closely to see if this punter can make it back to where he believes he truly belongs.