Former Miami Dolphin Super Bowl champion and All-Pro running back, Eugene “Mercury” Morris, died at the age of 77, his son announced via X on Sunday.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Eugene ‘Mercury’ Morris, legendary Miami Dolphins running back and cherished member of the NFL family, at the age of 77,” the statement read. “Known for his electrifying speed and dynamic play, Mercury was a cornerstone of the Dolphins’ historic 1972 undefeated season and a two-time Super Bowl champion.”
Last night, my father @MercuryMorris22 passed away. 💔🐬🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/2QARscMcOg
— GhostWridah (@GhostWridah) September 22, 2024
Miami drafted Morris in the third round of the 1969 NFL Draft out of West Texas A&M. Morris amassed his best stats in 1972 — when the Dolphins went undefeated — rushing for his lone 1,000-yard season and posting a league-leading 12 rushing touchdowns.
His three All-Pro seasons came from 1971 to 1973, the most effective three-year stint of his career. Morris and the Dolphins won back-to-back Super Bowls in 1972 and 1973, boasting a combined record of 32-2 across those two dominant seasons.
Morris played his final season in the NFL with the San Diego Chargers in 1976, failing to start a game for the first time since his rookie year. He rushed for 256 yards and two touchdowns as the Chargers went 6-8.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and all those who had the honor of knowing him,” the statement on X read. “His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, both in the game of football and in life.”
(Photo: Rod Hanna / USA Today)
