One of the biggest figures in NFL reporting died on Sunday, as ESPN brought word that Chris Mortensen, the longtime NFL insider for the network, had died at 72. ESPN released a statement from president Jimmy Pitaro announcing the devastating news, with Pitaro highlighting Mortensen’s work and passion for covering the NFL, as well as uplifting others in the industry.
ESPN is very sorry to have to share this devastating news.
Award-winning journalist Chris Mortensen passed away this morning at the age of 72. pic.twitter.com/m0Sh742PuO
— ESPN PR (@ESPNPR) March 3, 2024
Mortensen’s impact on the industry was immediately apparent by the tributes that began pouring in once the news was made public from all over the NFL and sports reporting world. Mortensen’s long-time colleague, Adam Schefter, offered some heartfelt thoughts on a man he worked alongside breaking news for ESPN, calling him “one of the greatest reporters in sports history, and an even better man.”
An absolutely devastating day. Mort was one of the greatest reporters in sports history, and an even better man. Sincerest condolences to his family, and all who knew and loved him. So many did. Mort was the very best. He will be forever missed and remembered. https://t.co/7b7Im0vIFs
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 3, 2024
Those thoughts were echoed by many others around the NFL and sports media space, as his colleagues at ESPN and beyond offered their remembrances of Mortensen. The work he did breaking stories and providing information was highlighted by many, but each also pointed to his impact and kindness beyond the newsroom.
An absolute giant of a man and journalist. One of the great thrills coming to ESPN was getting to know and learn from Mort. Condolences to his family and friends and Godspeed to a legend. https://t.co/XAZ2qnt4F5
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) March 3, 2024
Crushing.
Mort was a delight to be around and nice to everyone. https://t.co/6GO1ErOTpz
— Rich Eisen (@richeisen) March 3, 2024
One of the kindest and funniest people I've encountered in our industry. Chris was incredibly supportive of me long before we were colleagues on TV; he had a rare combination of wit and warmth, and made everyone around him better at their jobs. I feel lucky to have known him. https://t.co/tuihZsVRXf
— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) March 3, 2024
Chris Mortensen was one of the kindest, most generous gentlemen you could ever come across, in any field.
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…
— Mike Greenberg (@Espngreeny) March 3, 2024
One of my idols growing up. His contributions to our world will never be matched.
Condolences to his family. https://t.co/jfWr4K03bs
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 3, 2024
This one hurts man. Mort was one of the kindest human beings you would ever know. The conversations we had about football, life, faith were amazing. Gonna miss him dearly
— Damien Woody (@damienwoody) March 3, 2024
Just saw the news about Mort and an incredible, profound sadness overcame me. He was a decades long friend and someone for whom I had total admiration as a professional and love and respect as a wonderful person. My deepest condolences to Micki and Alex and so many he impacted. pic.twitter.com/2J4C2itG5N
— Andrea Kremer (@Andrea_Kremer) March 3, 2024
Always a class act. RIP to a legend. https://t.co/Dzin4MIgto
— chris long (@JOEL9ONE) March 3, 2024
Mort was great at his job but more one of kindest & best people in this industry.
Nothing lit my day up like a text from Mort about a TV hit I did he loved or collaborating on a news report. Texts continued even after our time as teammates ended. We will miss you, Mort. RIP 🐐 https://t.co/aRSMfEPyC1
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) March 3, 2024
https://twitter.com/wyche89/status/1764405269185036330
Mortensen was diagnosed with Stage 4 throat cancer in 2016, battling it for the past eight years and provided inspiration for many who also found themselves fighting the disease — as highlighted by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
When @sarapelissero revealed her diagnosis seven years ago, one of the first people to reach out was Mort, who was already well into his own fight.
Thankfully, Sara won her battle; by sheer virtue of how he fought and supported so many others, I’d say Mort won, too.
RIP, Mort. pic.twitter.com/MhI0oieUOU
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 3, 2024
Mortensen began covering sports in 1983 with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and joined ESPN in 1991 where he became one of the top NFL reporters and was one of the first NFL insiders, becoming a fixture on TV for more than 30 years.
