Mercury Morris, the running back and kick returner for the Miami Dolphins' undefeated 1972 Super Bowl team, has died at the age of 77, according to his family.
The Miami Herald confirmed Morris' death through the Dolphins.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Eugene 'Mercury' Morris, legendary Miami Dolphins running back and treasured member of our NFL family, at the age of 77,” Miami-based musical artist and son Ghostrida, whose real name is Troy Jeffrey Morris, posted on X. “Known for his incredible speed and dynamic play, Mercury was a cornerstone of the Dolphins' historic undefeated 1972 season and two Super Bowl championships. His talent and passion left an indelible mark on the sports world, and his three Pro Bowl selections solidified his status as a football great.”
“Off the field, Mercury was a devoted father, loving brother, loyal friend and pillar of his community. His presence extended far beyond football and touched so many lives during his tenure at Miami.”
Morris was a third-round draft pick out of West Texas A&M and played for the Dolphins from 1969-1975, helping to form what would become known as the “Perfect Backfield” alongside Larry Csonka and Jim Kiick.
Morris was a three-time Pro Bowl selection with the Dolphins and won two Super Bowls, including leading the 1973 team to a second championship.
Morris rushed for exactly 1,000 yards and a league-high 12 rushing touchdowns in the 1972 regular season, and the Dolphins finished the season with a 14-0 record and went on to win three postseason games to become the only undefeated season in NFL history.
Csonka ran for 1,117 yards that year, making Miami the first team in history to have two players rush for 1,000 yards in the same season.
Morris joined the Chargers in 1976 and played one season with San Diego before retiring.
In 1982, the Pittsburgh native was convicted of drug trafficking charges but later acquitted, but served more than three years in prison in a plea bargain. He later became a motivational speaker, sharing his experiences in prison.
According to a family statement, Morris is survived by five children – Geno, Maceo, Tiffany, Troy and Elliot – and three brothers and sisters.
