Running back Mercury Morris, a member of the undefeated 1972 Dolphins team and a staunch defender of the 17-0 team’s accomplishments, has died. He was 77.

The team confirmed that Morris passed away on Saturday.

Morris, a Pittsburgh native, was a third-round pick out of West Texas State in 1969. He led the league in rushing touchdowns in 1972, with 12. He rushed for 1,000 yards that season, a personal best. The following year, Morris led the league in yards per attempt, with 6.4.

Morris was a three-time Pro Bowler and played for the Dolphins from 1969 to 1975. He finished his career with the Chargers in 1976.

In 2007, Morris expressed his displeasure with the Patriots when they attempted to surpass Miami’s performance with a 19–0 victory.

“If 17 trees fell in the forest 35 years ago, did it make a sound?” Morris said then. “Yeah, maybe you just weren’t there to hear it.”

He summarized New England’s quest as follows: “You can’t build the conversation around 19 victories. You have to reset the conversation at the end. Because if they go through a season without losing a game, they’re like the 1972 Miami Dolphins. They’re not going to be behind us, they’re not going to be for us. . . . But if they lose, they’re like the Bears (1985): 18-1.”

We extend our condolences to Morris’ family, friends and teammates.