My father, Garo Yepremian, spent much of his life proud to have been a Miami Dolphin. As his son, I grew up even more proud, hearing the stories, meeting the people who shared those incredible years, and understanding just how special the Super Bowl teams were.

That is why I continue to wonder: Why are Mercury Morris, Jim Kiick, and Garo Yepremian not in the Miami Dolphins Ring of Honor?

In 1972, the Dolphins accomplished what no team in professional football had ever done before—or has done since. They won every game they played: 17–0 and a Super Bowl championship.

It remains one of the greatest accomplishments in sports. And they followed it up with a repeat Super Bowl win the next year.

Three of the men who helped make those seasons possible were Mercury Morris, Jim Kiick, and my father, Garo Yepremian.

Mercury provided explosive playmaking alongside Larry Csonka and Jim Kiick, forming the legendary “Perfect Backfield.” Jim was a versatile and dependable presence who could run, catch, and block—and who quietly made countless important contributions throughout that remarkable season.

And then there was Garo.

Born in Cyprus, my father came to America as an immigrant, served in the U.S. Army, and became an NFL kicker. His left foot delivered points throughout the Dolphins’ perfect season, and his personality made him one of the most recognizable and beloved members of the team. As member of the Dolphins, he spent countless hours of his free time supporting Miami-area charities and causes, and was a perfect ambassador of the franchise– always respectful to fans and never turning down an autograph or photo request.

More than five decades have now passed since that perfect season. Mercury, Jim, and Garo have all passed away.

I wish my father could have stood in Hard Rock Stadium and heard his name announced to the fans who cheered for him. I wish he could have shared that moment with the teammates who became lifelong friends. Most of all, I wish he could have known that the organization he loved believed his contributions were worthy of its highest honor.

That opportunity is no longer possible in the way I had hoped, but recognition does not have an expiration date.

As Garo's son, I am simply asking that these three men be named to the Ring of Honor.

Mercury Morris.
Jim Kiick.
Garo Yepremian.

Three men who wore a Dolphins uniform during the only perfect season in NFL history.

Three men who helped make the Miami Dolphins part of football history forever.

I believe their names deserve a place alongside the other legends who helped build this franchise.

– Garo Yepremian Jr.

To learn more about the current Dolphins’ Ring of Honor and selection process, click here.