ESPN’s beloved NFL insider, Chris Mortensen, passed away on Sunday at the age of 72.
A pioneer in the field of sports journalism, Mortensen began his career in newspapers before transitioning to television with ESPN in 1991.
Mortensen had battled health issues, taking a leave of absence in 2016 after being diagnosed with Stage 4 throat cancer.
In September 2023, he left ESPN to prioritize his health, family, and faith.
The life and legacy of our beloved friend and colleague Chris Mortensen.
Produced by @VinnyColadonato pic.twitter.com/PhYiSFHYln
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 4, 2024
ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro paid tribute to Mortensen’s legacy, stating: “Mort was widely respected as an industry pioneer and universally beloved as a supportive, hard-working teammate.”
“He covered the NFL with extraordinary skill and passion and was at the top of his field for decades. He will truly be missed by colleagues and fans, and our hearts and thoughts are with his loved ones.”
Legend of Deflategate. Was a man of his word and never revealed his source and took all the heat till his death. Stand up guy and nothing but respect for him. Prayers to his family and friends.
— Edozie John Akunyili (@dogzigee) March 3, 2024
Throughout his more than three decades at ESPN, Mortensen was a prominent figure in breaking NFL news.
Randomly saw Mort probably about 15 yrs ago on a NYC street corner. When he was at the height of his game and the #1 NFL source on the planet. I decided to say hello assuming most didn’t recognize who he was just standing there waiting. We talked football for a good couple…
— The_Gildz (@The_Gildz) March 4, 2024
He was a regular contributor on “SportsCenter,” and “Sunday NFL Countdown,” and also appeared on ESPN’s investigative journalism program, “Outside the Lines.”
Wow! Can't believe he passed. Just found out from your post. ESPN came on the air when I was 10 yrs old. He, Chris Berman and a few others are people I grew up with.
— Matthew Whitford (@MatthewWhitford) March 3, 2024
Among his notable accomplishments, Mortensen broke significant stories such as Peyton Manning’s retirement in 2016.
He was honored with the Pro Football Writers of America’s Dick McCann Award and was recognized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Prayers of strength and condolence to Chris Mortensen family, friends and colleagues .
Best things that I heard was that Chris Mortensen was very good man 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽♥️— Mr. Undesirable Picks & Opinions (@Macurworld) March 4, 2024
Mortensen’s illustrious career garnered him 18 journalism awards and two Pulitzer Prize nominations.
Everyone who has worked with @mortreport called him a class act. Mortensen will be seriously missed. 😢
— Raymond Chuang (@SactoMan81) March 4, 2024
ESPN colleague Adam Schefter mourned his passing, describing Mortensen as “one of the greatest reporters in sports history” and “an even better man.”
RIP I’m at a loss for words. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends and the sports world as a whole 😢
— popcornisready (@popcornishere) March 4, 2024
Before joining ESPN, Mortensen worked for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, covering the Atlanta Braves and Falcons before transitioning solely to NFL coverage.
He won the George Polk Award in 1987 for his reporting on the NFL.
https://twitter.com/mrfaja03/status/1764646777431687291
Survived by his wife Micki and son Alex, Mortensen leaves behind a lasting legacy in sports journalism.
He was one of the most universally beloved figures in all of sports media.
R.I.P.
Sad day for sports RIP 🥲
— Raven Blakkwell (@RavenBlakkwell) March 4, 2024
