ESPN's Chris Mortensen Passes Away at 72 Following Retirement

ESPN’s Chris Mortensen has died at the age of 72.

Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN chairman, confirmed Mortensen’s death in a statement via X on Sunday, March 3.

The statement praised Mort for his pioneering role in the industry and his reputation as a supportive teammate who was loved by all. He was known for his exceptional skills and passion in covering the NFL, making him a top figure in his field for many years. Colleagues and fans will miss him dearly, and our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.

ESPN posted a photo of Mortensen smiling at his desk with the heartbreaking news of his passing at the age of 72. The network expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the award-winning journalist.

Following the sad news of Mortensen’s passing, many celebrities paid tribute to him on social media. One of them was Peyton Manning, who shared his grief on Instagram. Manning, who retired from the NFL in 2016, mentioned that Mortensen was the one who broke the news of his retirement.

In his heartfelt post on Sunday, Manning posted photos of himself with Mortensen and expressed his deep sorrow. He described Mortensen as a legendary figure who excelled in his field. Manning also mentioned how much he valued their friendship and the trust he had in Mortensen. He ended his post by sending his thoughts and prayers to Mortensen’s wife, Micki, and the rest of his family, and wished Mortensen to rest in peace.

In 2016, Mortensen received a diagnosis of Stage IV throat cancer. He decided to take a break from work after finding out about his condition. Eventually, Mortensen officially retired from ESPN in September 2023, although he mentioned that he may make occasional appearances on the network.

In a message shared via X, Mortensen expressed his feelings about leaving ESPN after the NFL draft in April, marking his 33rd draft. He stated that he was looking forward to the upcoming season but felt it was time to prioritize his health, family, and faith. Mortensen expressed his gratitude and humility, emphasizing that it was not a traditional retirement as he still planned to discuss sports. He ended his message with a blessing for everyone.

He started working at ESPN in 1991, where he was involved in the network's NFL shows and "SportsCenter." Prior to his broadcasting career, he reported on the Atlanta Braves, the Atlanta Falcons, and the NFL for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. In 1987, he received a George Polk Award for his journalism.

Mortensen, who spent two years in the Army, was twice nominated for a Pulitzer Prize during his career. He is survived by his wife, Micki Mortensen, and his son Alex Mortensen, who works as a football coach.

Editor's P/S:

The news of Chris Mortensen's passing is a profound loss for the world of sports journalism. Mortensen's groundbreaking contributions and unwavering dedication to the NFL left an indelible mark on the industry. His ability to break stories and provide insightful analysis made him a trusted source for fans and players alike. His passion for the game and his commitment to excellence were evident in every report he delivered.

Beyond his journalistic accomplishments, Mortensen was known for his unwavering support and camaraderie within the ESPN family. His colleagues and admirers have expressed heartfelt condolences, highlighting the impact he had on their lives and careers. His legacy as a mentor and a friend will continue to inspire future generations of sports journalists. The loss of Chris Mortensen is a reminder of the vital role that journalists play in shaping our understanding of the world and the importance of cherishing the individuals who dedicate their lives to informing and connecting us.