The enduring journey of Marquette King, once a standout NFL punter, has taken several twists and turns since he first entered the league with the Oakland Raiders in 2012. Now, in his mid-30s, King is on a determined quest to make a comeback in the NFL, convinced that he remains one of the best at his craft.
A Remarkable Career with the Raiders
King's NFL career began with a bang. Joining the Raiders in 2012, he quickly established himself as a premier punter, showcasing a rare combination of power and precision. During his tenure with the Raiders, which lasted until 2017, King led the NFL in punting yards in 2014 and recorded a career-long punt of 72 yards. Over 84 games, he amassed 446 punts for a staggering 20,822 yards, with 163 of those kicks landing inside the opponents' 20-yard line. His efforts did not go unnoticed, and he became a beloved figure among Raiders fans for his unique flair and consistent performance.
The Move to Denver and Subsequent Setback
In 2018, King made a significant move by signing a three-year, $7 million contract with the Denver Broncos. However, his time in Denver was short-lived. A thigh injury in October 2018 landed him on injured reserve, and he was subsequently released by the team. This setback marked a challenging period in King's career, but it would not be the end of his journey.
Success Outside the NFL
Undeterred, King explored opportunities outside the NFL. He found a new stage in the United Football League (UFL) and later in the XFL. King's talent shone brightly as he was named the All-UFL punter with the Arlington Renegades and became an XFL champion in 2023. He demonstrated his prowess once more by leading the XFL in punting yards in 2020. Despite these achievements, King wasn't among the players who transitioned back to the NFL following the UFL's inaugural season.
Ready for an NFL Comeback
Now, as the NFL season approaches, King is more determined than ever to reclaim his place in the league. At 35 years old, he believes he still has what it takes to perform at the highest level. Recently, he posted a video on social media showcasing one of his powerful punts, accompanied by a message brimming with confidence. "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.
King's journey is a testament to his resilience and unwavering belief in his abilities. As he sets his sights on the 2024 season, NFL teams in need of an experienced and dynamic punter might find it hard to overlook his impressive resume and undying passion for the game. Whether he receives that call remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Marquette King's story in professional football is far from over.