The Arlington Renegades boast a formidable special teams duo in punter Marquette King and kicker Taylor Russolino. These two specialists bring a wealth of experience and talent to the United Football League (UFL), making them crucial assets for the Renegades.
Marquette King Jr.: From High School Punter to NFL Star
Marquette King’s journey to becoming one of the premier punters in the UFL is as unique as his celebratory dances after a well-executed punt. Born on October 26, 1988, in Macon, Georgia, King initially aspired to be a wide receiver during his high school days at Rutland High School. However, fate had other plans for him when his coach discovered his remarkable punting skills during his free time.
Although initially recruited as a wide receiver at Fort Valley State University, King transitioned into a full-time punter during his junior year. During his senior year at Fort Valley State, he showcased his prowess, earning All-First-team Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference honors and the 2011 FVSU Wildcats Most Valuable Player title.
King’s professional career took off when the Oakland Raiders signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2012. Despite facing challenges, including being placed on injured reserve in his rookie season, King eventually emerged as a dominant force in punting. In 2013, he led the league in gross yards per punt with an impressive 48.9.
In the 2014 season, he solidified King’s reputation, leading the league in both punting yards and total punts, setting single-season franchise records for the Oakland Raiders. His distinctive celebrations after booming punts became a trademark during his career. Despite being released by the Raiders in 2018, King continued to showcase his skills with the Denver Broncos and the St. Louis Battlehawks in the XFL before finding a new home with the Arlington Renegades in the 2023 XFL Draft.
Taylor Russolino: A Kicking Sensation with a Golden Boot
Taylor Russolino, born on May 23, 1989, in Metairie, Louisiana, took a less conventional path to his kicking career. Initially a soccer player, Russolino transitioned to football during his senior year of high school at the request of the football and soccer coaches. Encouraged by NFL kicker John Carney, he attended a Ray Guy kicking camp and decided to pursue football.
Russolino’s college career at Millsaps College in Division III football saw him set multiple kicking records for the program. His professional journey began with stints in various indoor football leagues, including the Continental Indoor Football League and the Arena Football League.
In 2017, Russolino made a mark in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Montreal Alouettes, replacing their injured regular kicker. His XFL debut with the St. Louis Battlehawks in 2020 was spectacular, as he kicked a record-breaking 58-yard field goal. Russolino’s talent extended beyond the field, as he started a GoFundMe page for front-line workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Denver Broncos recognized Russolino’s potential, signing him to the practice squad in 2020. His remarkable journey led him to the Arlington Renegades, where he continues to display his kicking prowess in the UFL.
Conclusion: A Winning Combination
Marquette King and Taylor Russolino bring a blend of skill, experience, and flair to the Arlington Renegades. As specialists, they play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of games. Whether it’s King’s booming punts or Russolino’s accurate kicks, this dynamic duo is poised to significantly impact the success of the Renegades in the United Football League.
