As the NFL season looms near, one name that echoes with a determined call for redemption is Marquette King. At 35, the former standout punter of the Oakland Raiders, is on an unwavering quest to return to the league that once saw him soar to remarkable heights.
Rise to Prominence
King's journey in the NFL began with the Oakland Raiders in 2012, where he quickly cemented his status as one of the league’s premier punters. His tenure with the Raiders, which spanned until 2017, was marked by several noteworthy achievements. In 2014, King led the NFL in punting yards, a testament to his powerful leg and precision. Among his career highlights was a stunning 72-yard punt, showcasing the extent of his capabilities. Over 84 games, he accumulated 446 punts for a total of 20,822 yards, with 163 of those kicks landing inside the 20-yard line.
Setbacks and Resilience
In 2018, King signed a three-year, $7 million contract with the Denver Broncos. Unfortunately, his stint with the Broncos was cut short due to a thigh injury, which led to his placement on injured reserve in October of that year. Following his injury, the Broncos released him, marking a significant setback in his career.
Despite this hurdle, King’s resolve remained unshaken. Transitioning to the XFL, he once again showcased his elite punting skills, leading the league in punting yards in 2020. His perseverance paid off in 2023 when he became an XFL champion with the Arlington Renegades. Additionally, King received the honor of being named the All-UFL punter, demonstrating his continued excellence in a league where punting is notably challenging.
The Road to Redemption
Though many players transitioned from the UFL to the NFL after its inaugural season, King was not among them. This fact only fueled his determination to reclaim his place in the NFL. His confidence in his abilities remains unshaken, as evidenced by his emphatic declaration: "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's recent endeavors include posting a video on social media, showcasing a punt that underscores his readiness and capability to return to the NFL. With the 2024 season approaching, he aims to prove that age is just a number and that he still possesses the skill and drive to perform at the highest level.
As the NFL gears up for another thrilling season, Marquette King stands as a figure of persistence and talent, awaiting the moment to once again make his mark on the league. Whether he receives the call he is so fervently manifesting remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Marquette King is far from finished.