Marquette King is on a mission to return to the NFL, with a self-confidence that reflects both his past achievements and recent successes. The 35-year-old punter, who has made a name for himself in the ranks of both the NFL and other football leagues, is sparing no effort in his quest for a comeback to the elite professional stage.
Early Career and NFL Ascension
King’s journey in the NFL began in 2012 with the Oakland Raiders. During his tenure with the Raiders, he played a total of 84 games, becoming a cornerstone of their special teams unit. His prowess as a punter was immediately evident, and by 2014, he led the NFL in punting yards—a testament to his power and precision. Over the course of his stint with the Raiders, King posted remarkable statistics, including a career-long punt of 72 yards, a total of 446 punts for 20,822 yards, and 163 punts landing inside the 20-yard line.
Despite his stellar performance, King's time with the Raiders came to an end in 2017. In 2018, he signed a three-year, $7 million contract with the Denver Broncos, marking a new chapter in his career. Unfortunately, his journey with the Broncos was cut short when a thigh injury landed him on injured reserve in October 2018, leading to his eventual release from the team.
Transition to Other Leagues
Not one to be easily dissuaded, King shifted his focus to other professional leagues. He joined the XFL, where he continued to demonstrate his elite punting skills, leading the league in punting yards in 2020. His talent and adaptability were further underscored in 2023 when he became an XFL champion.
His remarkable performance didn’t stop there. King also excelled in the United Football League (UFL), earning the distinction of being named the All-UFL punter with the Arlington Renegades. This accolade is particularly notable given the challenging nature of punting in a league where the kicking game often plays a pivotal role.
The Quest for an NFL Return
Now, as the NFL season approaches, King is channeling his focus on returning to the league where he first made his mark. At 35, he is brimming with confidence and determination. Recently, he posted a video on social media showcasing one of his impressive punts, accompanied by a statement that captures his unwavering resolve: "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 journey is emblematic of his enduring spirit and love for the game. He aims for 2024 to be the year he reclaims his place in the NFL, driven by the belief that his skills and experience still make him a prime candidate for any team in need of a top-tier punter.
Looking Ahead
As King continues to train and keep himself in peak condition, his fans and supporters eagerly await to see if an NFL team will offer him the opportunity he seeks. Given his track record and the persistence he has shown throughout his career, one can only hope that this seasoned punter will once again grace the NFL field, reminding everyone of the exceptional talent that Marquette King possesses.