Eugene “Mercury” Morris, a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Miami Dolphins and a key player in the team’s perfect 1972 season, has passed away at the age of 77. His son, Troy-Jeffrey Morris, shared the news on social media on behalf of the family.
Morris’s family statement highlighted his exceptional talent and passion for football, which left a significant impact on the sport. Morris was selected to the Pro Bowl three times, further cementing his legacy among football’s elite.
Off the field, he was remembered as a dedicated father, a loving brother, a loyal friend, and a strong community figure. His influence reached far beyond the game, affecting many lives during his time in Miami.
Renowned for his speed and explosive running style, Morris achieved a career-high of 1,000 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns during the historic undefeated Super Bowl-winning season in 1972. He and Hall of Fame fullback Larry Csonka became the first NFL teammates to each rush for over 1,000 yards in the same season.
The following year, Morris contributed 954 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, leading Miami to consecutive Super Bowl victories. The 1972 team, including Morris, would famously celebrate with champagne whenever the last remaining undefeated team lost a game.
The Miami Dolphins issued a statement honoring Morris’s influence, noting his dynamic play, vibrant personality, and record achievements. They remembered his love for the Dolphins, the fans, and the South Florida community, recognizing him as one of the franchise’s greatest players.
Morris was drafted by the Dolphins in the third round of the 1969 NFL Draft and spent seven of his eight NFL seasons with the team, accumulating 4,133 career rushing yards and 31 touchdowns. He ranks fourth on the Dolphins’ all-time rushing list with 3,877 yards, behind Csonka, Ricky Williams, and Ronnie Brown.
In 2013, Morris was honored by being added to the Dolphins’ Walk of Fame.