Marquette King's Journey Back to the NFL
Marquette King is on a mission to make his return to the NFL. The 35-year-old punter is no stranger to the gridiron, having begun his career with the Oakland Raiders in 2012. Over his tenure with the Raiders, King developed a reputation as a formidable special teams asset, leading the NFL in punting yards in 2014 and registering a career-long punt of 72 yards.
In his time with the Raiders, King played in 84 games, amassing 446 punts for an impressive 20,822 yards. Notably, 163 of these kicks landed inside the 20-yard line, showcasing his strategic precision and valuable contributions to the team's field position battles. Despite his achievements, King’s journey has been marked by both high and low points.
A Roller-Coaster Ride in Denver
In 2018, King’s performance earned him a three-year, $7 million contract with the Denver Broncos. Unfortunately, his stint with the Broncos was cut short. A thigh injury placed him on injured reserve in October of the same year, leading to his eventual release from the team. This setback could have spelled the end for many players, but King was far from ready to hang up his cleats.
Success in Alternative Leagues
Turning his focus to the XFL, King demonstrated resilience and a continued passion for the game. His efforts paid off in 2020 when he led the league in punting yards. More recently, in 2023, King not only solidified his status as an elite punter in alternative football leagues but also helped his team secure the XFL championship. Additionally, King has earned the title of All-UFL punter with the Arlington Renegades, further proving his abilities in a sport where punting poses significant challenges.
King's dedication and performance have not gone unnoticed. Reflecting on his achievements and his drive to return to the NFL, King confidently declared, "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."
The Road Ahead
As the new NFL season approaches, King’s determination to reclaim his place in the league is evident. He recently took to social media to showcase one of his impressive punts, making a compelling case for NFL teams looking to bolster their special teams lineup. For King, 2024 is the year he aims to make his long-awaited return to the NFL, and his confidence is palpable.
While the NFL is known for its competitive nature and high-caliber talent, King's experience and track record make a strong argument for his return. With a professional career that includes leading the NFL in punting yards, achieving significant milestones in alternative leagues, and a resolute spirit, King is poised and prepared for another shot at the NFL.
Whether or not a team takes a chance on this veteran punter remains to be seen, but Marquette King's story is far from over. His journey underscores the resilience and passion that drives professional athletes to continually strive for excellence, irrespective of the obstacles they face.