CRIME HISTORY - Dolphins RB sentenced for drug trafficking
By: Scott McCabe
Examiner Staff Writer
November 5, 2009
On this day, Nov. 5, in 1981, former Miami Dolphins running back Eugene "Mercury" Morris was sentenced to 20 years in prison for selling cocaine to an undercover drug agent.
Morris, who earned his nickname at an early age for his mercurial moves, was a running back and kick returner for the Miami teams of the 1970s, including the '72 Dolphins, the only team in NFL history to finish undefeated.
Morris played in three Super Bowls and three Pro Bowls.
After leaving football, Morris was convicted of cocaine trafficking. Morris served three years before his sentence was overturned, and a plea bargain resulted in his release. He became a motivational speaker, warning of the dangers of drugs.
Morris, 62, now helps former players fight the NFL for retirement benefits.
-- Scott McCabe
