ESPN NFL reporter Chris Mortensen, who was legendary for his insights and pioneering coverage of the league, died at the age of 72.
Mortensen spent over 30 years at ESPN breaking news and reporting before stepping away in 2023 to focus on his health.
He was respected across the industry for his passionate work.
Mortensen began his career at newspapers before moving to ESPN in 1991.
He broke significant stories like Deflategate but also earned admiration for his kindness and mentorship of colleagues.
“Mort was widely respected as an industry pioneer and universally beloved as a supportive, hard-working teammate,” ESPN Chair Jimmy Pitaro stated. “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.”
“Excited about another season but it’s time to reveal after my 33rd NFL draft in April, I made a decision to step away from ESPN and focus on my health, family and faith,” Mortensen said in September 2023.
His passing shocked and saddened many at ESPN who remembered his generosity and impact on the business of football reporting.
“Chris Mortensen was one of the kindest, most generous gentlemen you could ever come across, in any field,” ESPN’s Mike Greenberg wrote. “His professionalism and decency earned him universal admiration – his enthusiasm and good nature made him everyone’s friend. His mark on the business will last a long time, his impact on those of us lucky enough to know him well will last the rest of our lives. Rest in peace, Mort. We will treasure your memory forever.”
“I’m absolutely devastated to hear about the passing of Chris Mortensen,” ESPN colleague Mike Tannenbaum posted. “While he was a titan and a pioneer in our profession, he was also the kindest and most generous person to me. He was a mentor to some many of us at ESPN. He will be missed, but his legacy of kindness and giving will remain with us. Rest in peace my friend.”