Marquette King's Unyielding Quest for an NFL Return
At 35 years old, Marquette King is not ready to hang up his cleats just yet. The seasoned punter, who built his NFL career on booming kicks and charismatic celebrations, is on a determined quest to make his 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 recently declared, encapsulating his unwavering belief in his abilities and future prospects.
A Storied Career with the Raiders
King's journey through professional football began with the Oakland Raiders in 2012. Over the course of five years with the Raiders, King etched his name in the franchise's history. In 2014, he led the NFL in punting yards, a testament to his skill and endurance. During his tenure, King played in 84 NFL games, amassing 446 punts for a staggering 20,822 yards. His proficient play saw 163 of these kicks land inside the 20-yard line, creating opportunities for his team while hindering the opposition.
Notably, King holds the record for a career-long punt of 72 yards, a remarkable feat that underscores his leg strength and precision. His contributions to the Raiders were instrumental, making him a fan favorite and a feared opponent on the field.
Bolts Cut Short in Denver
In 2018, King signed a lucrative three-year, $7 million contract with the Denver Broncos, signaling a new chapter in his career. However, his time in Denver was marred by injury. A thigh injury landed him on injured reserve in October 2018, cutting his season short and leading to his eventual release from the Broncos. Despite the setback, King's resilience and dedication to the game have kept his NFL dreams alive.
Dominance in Alternative Leagues
King's talents did not go unnoticed outside the NFL. He found success in the XFL, leading the league in punting yards in 2020 and securing an XFL championship in 2023. His prowess also earned him the title of All-UFL punter with the Arlington Renegades, showcasing that his skills remain sharp and competitive even in diverse playing environments.
King's adaptability and continued performance in leagues like the XFL and UFL prove that he still has plenty left to offer. His efforts to stay relevant and in peak condition are clear signals to NFL teams that he is ready for a comeback.
A Punter's Manifestation
With the NFL season approaching, King has vocalized his ambitions clearly—2024 is the year he intends to reclaim his rightful place in the league. His dedication is visible not just in his performance but also in his active presence on social media. King recently posted a video showcasing one of his powerful punts, a public demonstration of his readiness and ability to compete at the highest level once again.
Although he was not among the players to transition from the UFL to the NFL following its inaugural season, King remains undeterred. His statement, "You can't tell me that there are 32 punters better than me," reflects a deep-seated confidence and a challenge to NFL teams to recognize his value.
Conclusion
Marquette King's journey has been a blend of triumph, setbacks, and resilience. From leading the NFL in punting yards to becoming an XFL champion, King's career is a testament to his enduring talent and fortitude. As he eyes a return to the NFL in 2024, the 35-year-old punter stands ready to once again make his mark in the league. Whether an NFL team will heed his call remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Marquette King's dedication to the game of football is unwavering.