At 35 years old, Marquette King is on a mission to make his return to the NFL. Known for his distinctive style and powerful leg, King has recently been making waves as the All-UFL punter for the Arlington Renegades. His career began with the Oakland Raiders in 2012, where he quickly became a standout player, leading the NFL in punting yards in 2014 and amassing 20,822 yards with 163 kicks inside the 20-yard line over 84 games. Among his notable achievements with the Raiders was a career-long punt of 72 yards.
King's journey has been marked by both highs and lows. In 2018, he signed a three-year, $7 million contract with the Denver Broncos. However, his time with the team was cut short when a thigh injury placed him on injured reserve in October of that year, leading to his eventual release. Despite this setback, King demonstrated his resilience by leading the XFL in punting yards in 2020 and later becoming an XFL champion in 2023.
As the NFL season approaches, King is setting his sights on a comeback in 2024. "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 stated confidently on social media. His determination is palpable, and his recent performances in alternative leagues showcase his continued prowess as a top-tier punter.
King's ability to perform under various conditions—whether in the NFL, XFL, or UFL—speaks volumes about his adaptability and skill. While many players who join the UFL aim to transition to the NFL, King has uniquely positioned himself by excelling across multiple platforms. His recent achievement as an All-UFL punter with Arlington Renegades highlights his ongoing excellence and readiness to compete at the highest level.
The road to an NFL comeback is not without its challenges. Players of King's age and with his history of injuries often face skepticism from teams looking for younger talent. However, King's track record and recent form suggest he still has much to offer. His impressive statistics from his NFL days, including 446 punts for the Raiders, are a testament to his consistency and skill.
King's journey serves as an inspiration to many aspiring athletes. His dedication to the sport, despite the setbacks, underscores a relentless pursuit of excellence. His ability to remain at the top of his game, even at the age of 35, showcases a blend of talent, work ethic, and passion that is rare in professional sports.
While it remains to be seen which NFL team will take a chance on King, his recent social media posts have generated significant interest and anticipation. His showcased punts remind fans and scouts alike of the unique and dynamic gameplay he brings to the field. For King, 2024 represents not just a chance to return to the NFL, but also a moment to solidify his legacy as one of the game's premier punters.
In an era where special teams often play a decisive role in the outcome of games, a player of King's caliber could be a valuable asset for any team. As he continues to train and showcase his skills, the football community watches eagerly, waiting to see if King's manifestation of an NFL return will indeed come to fruition. Whether or not an NFL call comes soon, Marquette King's journey remains a powerful narrative of perseverance, talent, and unwavering determination.