At 35, Marquette King is on a mission that many consider improbable: returning to the NFL. The former NFL standout, who was once the league's premier punter, is now making waves in the UFL and manifesting his comeback on social media. “You can't tell me that there are 32 punters better than me," King declared. "All-UFL Punter in a league where punting isn't easy at all! I'm manifesting a call from an NFL team again soon."
A Stellar NFL Career
King began his NFL journey with the Oakland Raiders in 2012, where he quickly distinguished himself as a top-tier talent in special teams. Between 2012 and 2017, King played 84 games for the Raiders, leading the NFL in punting yards in 2014 and posting a career-long punt of 72 yards. His tenure with the Raiders saw him amass an impressive 446 punts for 20,822 yards, with 163 of those kicks landing inside the 20-yard line.
These statistics solidified King’s reputation as one of the elite punters in the league. His on-field prowess earned him a three-year, $7 million contract with the Denver Broncos in 2018, a deal that signaled his high value in the NFL landscape. However, King's momentum came to a halt due to a thigh injury that placed him on injured reserve that October. Shortly after, the Broncos released him, marking an abrupt end to his stint with the team.
Revitalizing His Career
Unfazed by the setback, King continued to ply his trade in the UFL and XFL. In the UFL, he was named the All-UFL punter with the Arlington Renegades, showcasing his ability to adapt and excel in different competitive environments. King further demonstrated his resilience and skill by leading the XFL in punting yards in 2020. His efforts culminated in becoming an XFL champion in 2023.
Despite his accolades in alternative leagues, the transition back to the NFL has proven elusive. King was one of the few players who did not make the leap from the UFL to the NFL following its inaugural season. Undeterred, he continues to showcase his skills and determination, evident from a recent video he posted on social media that highlighted one of his remarkable punts.
The 2024 NFL Dream
The upcoming NFL season is on the horizon, and King is more determined than ever to secure a roster spot. As he sets his sights on 2024, his message is clear: his talent and experience make him an invaluable asset. King's assertion that there aren’t "32 punters better than me" is more than just a statement—it's a challenge to NFL teams to recognize his unique skill set and the potential he brings to the field.
Whether King will indeed make his return to the NFL remains to be seen. However, his journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication and the relentless pursuit of his dreams. In a world where professional athletes often face abrupt ends to their careers, King’s story is one of resilience, hope, and the relentless quest for redemption on the grandest stage of all: the NFL.