Marquette King's NFL Comeback Journey: Manifesting a Return
At 35 years old, Marquette King isn't ready to close the chapter on his NFL career. The former Oakland Raiders punter, who has been showcasing his skills across various leagues, is determined to make a return to the NFL, proving that his talent is far from diminishing.
A Storied NFL Career
King began his professional journey with the Oakland Raiders in 2012, quickly establishing himself as one of the league's premier punters. Over his tenure with the Raiders, which lasted until 2017, King played in 84 games, accumulating an impressive 446 punts for 20,822 yards. His ability to pin opponents deep in their territory was evident with 163 punts landing inside the 20-yard line. One of the highlights of his career came in 2014 when he led the NFL in punting yards, showcasing a career-long punt of 72 yards.
The Ups and Downs Post-Raiders
In 2018, King was given a lucrative opportunity with the Denver Broncos, signing a three-year, $7 million contract. Unfortunately, his time with the Broncos was cut short due to a thigh injury that placed him on injured reserve by October of that year. This setback led to his release from the team, marking a significant hurdle in his career.
Continued Success in Alternative Leagues
Despite the setbacks in the NFL, King continued to demonstrate his prowess as a punter in other leagues. In 2020, he led the XFL in punting yards, proving his skill set was still elite. King’s accomplishments extended beyond individual accolades as he became an XFL champion in 2023 with the Arlington Renegades, where he was named the All-UFL punter. "You can't tell me that there are 32 punters better than me," King confidently stated. "All-UFL Punter in a league where punting isn't easy at all! I'm manifesting a call from an NFL team again soon."
Even with his impressive resume in the United Football League, King's journey has not been without its challenges. He was not among the players who transitioned from the UFL to the NFL following its inaugural season. However, his determination remains unwavering.
Manifesting an NFL Comeback
As the NFL season approaches, King is actively working towards reclaiming his place in the league. Recently, he posted a video on social media showcasing one of his powerful punts, reminding NFL teams and fans alike of his exceptional talent. King is setting his sights on 2024 as the year of his return, driven by the belief that his contributions on the field are far from over.
King's quest to return to the NFL is not just about personal redemption; it's a testament to his resilience and passion for the game. His journey underscores the challenges and uncertainties professional athletes often face, especially when injuries and team dynamics are at play. Yet, through it all, King remains steadfast, illustrating a level of dedication and optimism that inspires.
With the NFL season on the horizon, the football world will be watching to see if Marquette King's manifested dream becomes a reality. His story is a reminder that in sports, as in life, persistence and belief in one's abilities can pave the way for remarkable comebacks.