In a remarkable journey that spans over a decade, Marquette King is aiming to rekindle his NFL career. At 35 years old, King is no stranger to the highs and lows of professional football. His storied career began with the Oakland Raiders in 2012, where he showcased his formidable punting skills until 2017, a period marked by significant achievements and undeniable talent.
From Raider to Renegade
King's tenure with the Raiders was nothing short of impressive. Over the course of 84 games, King accumulated 446 punts, totaling 20,822 yards with 163 of those kicks landing inside the 20-yard line. His 72-yard punt still stands as a testament to his capability. Notably, he led the NFL in punting yards in 2014, cementing his reputation as one of the premier punters of his era.
Following his stint with the Raiders, King continued his career with the Denver Broncos, signing a three-year, $7 million contract in 2018. However, his time with the Broncos was cut short due to a thigh injury, which relegated him to injured reserve in October of the same year. Subsequently, King was released, which began a period of transition and resilience for the veteran punter.
Champion in Alternative Leagues
King's journey didn't end there. In 2020, he found a new platform to display his punting prowess in the XFL, where he once again led the league in punting yards. His excellence carried over into 2023 when he became an XFL champion. Additionally, King has been named the All-UFL punter with the Arlington Renegades, illustrating his continued dominance in alternative football leagues.
Aiming for an NFL Comeback
Despite his accomplishments outside the NFL, King remains unsatisfied and driven by an unyielding belief in his abilities. "You can't tell me that there are 32 punters better than me," King declared with conviction. "All-UFL Punter in a league where punting isn't easy at all! I'm manifesting a call from an NFL team again soon."
In a recent social media post, King showcased one of his impressive punts, demonstrating that his skills have not waned but perhaps sharpened with experience. As the NFL season approaches, King is setting his sights on 2024 as the year he makes his triumphant return to the league.
King's story is one of perseverance, talent, and an unyielding passion for the game. As he continues his quest, NFL teams in need of a seasoned and capable punter might find in King not just a player, but a valuable asset shaped by years of dedication and experience. The football world waits with bated breath to see if the next chapter in Marquette King's illustrious career will once again be written on the grand stage of the NFL.