NFL reporter Chris Mortensen, who covered football for decades and was one of the most recognizable reporters on TV, is dead.
Key Takeaway
Chris Mortensen, the legendary ESPN NFL reporter, has passed away at the age of 72. His long-standing career and contributions to NFL coverage have left a lasting impact on the sports journalism industry.
Long-Standing Career
Chris died Sunday morning according to his longtime employer, ESPN. The cause of death is unclear. Mortensen was a staple of ESPN’s coverage of the NFL for decades, most famous for his TV segments, dubbed the Mort Report. Chris was often featured on ESPN’s “Sunday NFL Countdown,” “SportsCenter” and “Monday Night Football” … in addition to writing and doing radio hits at ESPN.
Health Battles and Retirement
Mortensen had to step away from TV in 2016, when he revealed he was battling stage 4 throat cancer. He ultimately returned to work at ESPN, but in September 2023 he retired from the network.
Tribute from ESPN Chairman
“Mort was widely respected as an industry pioneer and universally beloved as a supportive, hard-working teammate,” ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro says. “He covered the NFL with extraordinary skill and passion, and was at the top of his field for decades. He will truly be missed by colleagues and fans, and our hearts and thoughts are with his loved ones.”
