Bristol, Connecticut – The sports journalism world mourns the loss of legendary NFL insider, Chris Mortensen, who passed away at the age of 72. Mortensen, known for his groundbreaking work at ESPN, revolutionized sports reporting with his tireless dedication and passion for the game. His career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Since joining ESPN in 1991, Mortensen became a familiar face on various programs like “Sunday NFL Countdown,” “SportsCenter,” and ESPN Radio. He covered every Super Bowl from 1985 until his forced hiatus in 2016 due to a Stage IV throat cancer diagnosis. Despite his health battles, Mortensen continued to inspire colleagues and fans alike with his unmatched professionalism and skill.
Fellow sports journalist Peter King praised Mortensen as a trailblazer in the field, likening him to NFL reporting icon, Will McDonough. King highlighted Mortensen’s unwavering commitment to excellence and the impact he had on shaping modern sports journalism. Mortensen’s influence extended beyond his reporting as he mentored and guided aspiring journalists in the industry.
Tributes poured in from colleagues and friends, with ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro describing Mortensen as a pioneer and dedicated team player. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also expressed condolences, acknowledging Mortensen’s contributions to the league and his compassionate nature towards everyone he encountered. Mortensen’s legacy as a respected journalist and mentor will endure for generations to come.
Producer Fred Gaudelli credited Mortensen as one of ESPN’s most influential hires, revolutionizing the network’s coverage of the NFL. Gaudelli highlighted Mortensen’s precision in reporting and his invaluable contributions to ESPN’s draft coverage. Mortensen’s ability to break stories accurately set a new standard for sports journalism.
Despite his professional success, Mortensen faced criticism from some fan bases, notably during the Deflategate scandal involving the New England Patriots in 2015. Mortensen’s coverage sparked controversy among Patriots fans, but his commitment to reporting the truth remained unwavering. In a later interview, Mortensen reflected on the challenges of reporting such high-profile stories and acknowledged any shortcomings.
Mortensen’s career began long before ESPN, starting as a reporter/columnist for The National and later working as a consultant for CBS Sports. His tenure with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution honed his skills as a beat writer covering the Atlanta Braves and Falcons. In 2016, Mortensen received the prestigious Dick McCann Award from the Pro Football Writers of America, honoring his lifetime achievements in journalism.
One of Mortensen’s defining moments was breaking the news of Peyton Manning’s retirement in 2016, even while battling Stage IV throat cancer. The resilience and dedication displayed by Mortensen in delivering such significant news encapsulated his unwavering commitment to his craft. Mortensen’s impact on NFL reporting and journalism as a whole remains unparalleled, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered fondly.