The family of Mercury Morris, the former running back for the Miami Dolphins and San Diego Chargers who won two Super Bowl championships, announced his passing on Sunday. He was 77 years old.
Troy-Jeffery, Morris’ son, issued a statement on X regarding his father’s demise, and he requested privacy as they mourn the former NFL superstar.
Morris was selected by the Dolphins in the third round of the 1969 NFL Draft from West Texas A&M. In the 1971 season, he established himself as a running back of the Pro Bowl caliber.
However, his career truly took off in the 1972 season, when the Dolphins achieved an undefeated record and secured the championship.
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dolphins great Mercury Morris. pic.twitter.com/V2t8SFNVvf
— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) September 22, 2024
For the first and only time in his career, Morris rushed for 1,000 yards and led the NFL with 12 rushing touchdowns in 1972.
He and Larry Csonka were the first running back tandem to surpass the 1,000-yard mark in the same season.
In 1976, he concluded his professional career with the Chargers.
Morris is survived by his five children.
[READ MORE: Tourist Dies After Brutal Shark Attack]