Chris Mortensen, a 72-year-old former ESPN NFL insider, passed away on Sunday morning, the company said.
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
First first on ESPN in 1991, Mortensen said in 2023 that he would be taking a break to prioritize his “health, family, and faith.”
In addition to being a frequent contributor to SportsCenter and Monday Night Countdown on ESPN, Mortensen was an analyst for the network’s NFL draft coverage. He is recognized by many as the first NFL insider.
The news of Mortensen’s passing sparked reactions on social media from a number of sports reporters:
Brutal news. Great guy, great at his job, made a huge imprint on how to cover the NFL. Always had something kind to say or a news nugget to pass along. RIP and condolences to his family. https://t.co/hNSBSRgs2y
— Pat Forde (@ByPatForde) March 3, 2024
I cannot begin to express my deep sense of loss as my beloved friend leaves us for the eternal reward he so deserves. I cannot adequately describe my love and appreciation for Mort. https://t.co/nT13GSWttx
— Ed Werder (@WerderEdNFL) March 3, 2024
One of the nicest men in sports. Prayers for the whole Mortensen family. 🙏 https://t.co/rZ9vmxXmEq
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 3, 2024
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
A devastating loss for our business and for his friends and family. RIP Mort, a real one in every sense of the term. https://t.co/fF2dQSL37U
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 3, 2024
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
A giant in our business, and a terrific person. Will miss you, Mort. https://t.co/U2uxU3m0o6
— Peter King (@peter_king) March 3, 2024
In 2016, Mortensen made an announcement about his diagnosis of Stage 4 throat cancer and his decision to retire from his regular reporting responsibilities.
