Celebrated NFL Reporter Chris Mortensen Passes Away at Age 72 – Sky Bulletin
[ad_1]
Veteran and lauded NFL reporter Chris Mortensen has passed away at the age of 72, announced ESPN on Sunday. Mortensen, known for his in-depth NFL coverage over a span of nearly 40 years, including a 32-year tenure as a senior analyst for ESPN, died early Sunday morning.
The specifics of his death, including cause and location, were not immediately released.
ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro, in his tribute, recognized Mortensen as a pioneer in sports journalism, revered by colleagues and fans alike. Pitaro noted, “His remarkable expertise and enthusiasm for the NFL positioned him as a top-tier reporter for decades, and he will be sorely missed. Our deepest sympathies are with his family during this time.”
In 2016 Mortensen publicly shared his battle with Stage IV throat cancer and courageously continued his work, notably being the first to report on NFL icon Peyton Manning’s retirement. Manning, reflecting on his relationship with Mortensen, expressed on social media, “We lost a true legend… Mort was the best in the business…”
Following the 2022 NFL Draft, Mortensen retired to concentrate on his health and family. Up to his passing, he remained engaged in the sport he loved, reaching out to NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah with inquiries about the NFL Scouting Combine.
Jeremiah remembered Mortensen as a cherished figure who loved his sport, saying, “He’s just one of the sweetest souls you will have ever met…”
Mortensen’s footprint on ESPN and the sports journalism world is profound, with his work spanning across television and ESPN.com. His career was honored with the Professional Football Writers of America’s Dick McCann Award (later renamed the Bill Nunn Jr. Award) for his lengthy and significant impact on football reporting.
Prior to ESPN, Mortensen wrote for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and contributed to other notable sports media outlets. He began his journalism career at the South Bay (Calif.) Daily Breeze after serving two years in the Army.
Arthur Blank, owner of the Atlanta Falcons, along with other sports personalities like Adam Schefter of ESPN, have shared their heartfelt condolences, commending Mortensen’s professional excellence and character.
Mortensen, who hailed from Torrance, California, is survived by his wife, Micki, and son, Alex. His legacy as a premier NFL reporter endures in the memories of those who knew him and the sports journalism community he influenced.
___
AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
FAQs about Chris Mortensen
Q: Who was Chris Mortensen?
A: Chris Mortensen was a highly respected NFL reporter and analyst who worked in sports journalism for nearly four decades, including 32 years at ESPN.
Q: How did Chris Mortensen pass away?
A: As of the report, no immediate information regarding the cause or place of Chris Mortensen’s death was provided.
Q: What are some of Mortensen’s career achievements?
A: Mortensen received the Dick McCann Award from the Professional Football Writers of America for his long and distinguished contributions to football reporting. He is also remembered for his pioneering reporting and passion for the NFL.
Q: Did Chris Mortensen continue working after his cancer diagnosis?
A: Yes, despite his throat cancer diagnosis, Mortensen continued his role in sports journalism, even breaking the news of Peyton Manning’s retirement during his treatment.
Conclusion
The loss of Chris Mortensen has left a significant void in the world of sports journalism. His tenacity, expertise, and warmth defined his career and touched the lives of many within and outside the sports community. Mortensen’s legacy will live on through the stories he told, the friendships he forged, and the impact he had on the NFL and journalism as a whole. His contributions to sports reporting have set a high standard for future generations. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those mourning this profound loss.
[ad_2]