**Legendary Running Back Passes Away at 77**
MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — A football legend has left us too soon. Eugene “Mercury” Morris, a three-time Pro Bowl selection and key member of the unbeaten 1972 Miami Dolphins, has passed away at the age of 77.
Morris was an integral part of the Dolphins’ backfield, helping the team win two Super Bowl titles alongside Pro Football Hall of Famer Larry Csonka and Jim Kiick. His family remembered him as a devoted father, loving brother, loyal friend, and pillar in the community, whose presence extended far beyond the football field.
The Dolphins organization is deeply saddened by Morris’ passing, remembering him as a talented player who left an indelible mark on the sport. Morris led the team in rushing touchdowns in both of their championship seasons, finishing with an NFL-best 12 in 1972 and 10 more in 1973.
Throughout his eight-year career, Morris made a lasting impact on the Dolphins. He rushed for a career-best 1,000 yards in 1972 and 954 more in 1973, earning him a place in the team’s record books. His impressive kickoff return skills also earned him a spot in the team’s history, with a 105-yard touchdown return against Cincinnati remaining the longest in team history.
Morris was known for his humility and work ethic, crediting his coach with instilling a strong sense of direction and purpose in him and his teammates. He took pride in being part of the 1972 Dolphins, the only undefeated and untied team in NFL history, and was quick to dispel any notion that they rooted against teams that came close to matching their feat.
With a sharp sense of humor, Morris often poked fun at his beloved Dolphins, even when they were struggling. Despite personal struggles after his football career, Morris remained a motivational figure, urging people to avoid drugs and sharing his own experiences.
Morris’ legacy will live on, both on and off the field. He remains fourth on the Dolphins’ all-time rushing list and was inducted into the team’s Walk of Fame in 2013. The Dolphins organization and fans will forever remember him as one of the greatest players to wear the aqua and orange.
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