Marquette King: The Quest for NFL Redemption
Marquette King, once a household name among NFL punters, is on a mission to return to the big stage. At 35 years old, King is far from hanging up his cleats. After proving his mettle in the United Football League (UFL) and the XFL, King’s sights are firmly set on rejoining the National Football League (NFL).
A Stellar NFL Career
King began his journey into professional football with the Oakland Raiders in 2012, quickly establishing himself as an elite punter. Between 2012 and 2017, he played in 84 NFL games and amassed impressive stats, including leading the league in punting yards in 2014. With a career-long punt of 72 yards and 446 punts totaling 20,822 yards—163 of which landed inside the 20-yard line—King left an indelible mark during his tenure with the Raiders.
In 2018, King transitioned to the Denver Broncos, signing a three-year, $7 million contract. Unfortunately, his stint with the Broncos was cut short due to a thigh injury that placed him on injured reserve by October 2018. Following his injury, King was subsequently released from the team.
Success Beyond the NFL
Despite his departure from the NFL, King’s career did not stagnate. Exploiting his talent, he joined the Arlington Renegades in the UFL, earning the title of All-UFL punter. His abilities shone brightly in the XFL as well, where he led the league in punting yards in 2020 and eventually became an XFL champion in 2023.
King believes his performance in these leagues speaks volumes about his capabilities. "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 confidently.
The Drive for 2024
As the NFL season approaches, King is working harder than ever to showcase his readiness and skill. Recently, he posted a video on social media, displaying one of his signature punts, as part of his broader campaign to attract the attention of NFL teams. His goal is clear: he aims for 2024 to be the year he reclaims his place in the NFL.
King’s journey is a testament to his determination and resilience. While many players might consider retirement at his age, King remains persistent, driven by a firm belief in his ability to perform at the highest level.
Marquette King’s story is far from over. Whether he successfully returns to the NFL or continues to dominate alternative leagues, his legacy as one of the premier punters of his era is secure. Football followers and analysts will be watching closely, waiting to see which team's roster King will bolster next.