Legendary ESPN NFL reporter Chris Mortensen passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 72. The news was announced by the network, and ESPN Chair Jimmy Pitaro praised Mortensen as a pioneer in the industry and a beloved teammate.
Mortensen had retired from his longtime role with ESPN after the 2023 NFL Draft, citing a need to prioritize his health and family. He had battled with throat cancer since 2016, and in September 2023, he announced his decision to step away from ESPN.
The respected journalist spent most of his career at ESPN, joining the network in 1991 as a reporter for “NFL GameDay.” Over the years, he also worked as an analyst for the NFL Draft and was a regular contributor to “Sunday NFL Countdown” and “Outside The Lines.”
Before joining ESPN, Mortensen began his journalism career at the Daily Breeze in his hometown of Torrance, California. He also worked at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, covering both the MLB’s Atlanta Braves and the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons. In 1987, he began to focus solely on the NFL, and his work earned him the prestigious George Polk Award.
In 1988, Mortensen joined The National, where he covered the league for two years before making the move to ESPN. Known as the original NFL insider, he earned a reputation for his accurate and insightful reporting.
Mortensen’s career was not without controversy, however. He famously broke the news of the New England Patriots’ “Deflategate” scandal in 2015. His initial report stated that 11 of the 12 footballs used by the Patriots in the AFC Championship Game were under-inflated, but the investigation later found that only one of the 22 readings had been below regulation. While Mortensen stood by his report, it was ultimately debunked.
His ESPN colleague Mike Greenberg paid tribute to Mortensen, calling him “one of the kindest, most generous gentlemen you could ever come across.” Greenberg also praised Mortensen’s professionalism and impact on the industry, saying that his legacy will last for years to come.
Fellow ESPN reporter Mike Tannenbaum also shared his sadness at Mortensen’s passing, noting that he was a mentor to many at the network and had a lasting impact on those who knew him.
Mortensen’s death has shocked and saddened many in the NFL world, with colleagues, players, and fans alike paying tribute to his work and legacy. He will be remembered as a talented journalist who broke countless stories and paved the way for others in the sports reporting industry.
ESPN has not yet announced any plans for how they will honor Mortensen, but it is likely that he will be remembered in an upcoming broadcast or program. The network also shared its condolences to Mortensen’s family and loved ones, who have lost a brave and beloved member.
The football community has lost a true legend with the passing of Chris Mortensen. As fans and colleagues mourn his death, his contributions to the NFL and to sports journalism as a whole will never be forgotten. Mortensen will be greatly missed, but his impact on the industry will continue to be felt.
