Arr, Chris Mortensen be gettin' many a tribute from Peyton Manning and other scallywags in the NFL world. Heartbreak all 'round!
2024-03-03
Arrr, me hearties! The scuttlebutt be that Chris Mortensen has shuffled off this mortal coil, leaving the NFL world aghast! The scurvy dog had many mateys in the game, and his loss be a blow to all who enjoyed his swashbuckling reports. Farewell, ye old sea dog!
The NFL lost one of its longtime reporters on Sunday as ESPN announced that Chris Mortensen, who has been with them since 1991, died at 72 years old. The loss is one that the league is mourning after Mortensen worked more than three decades covering the NFL. Mortensen was an award-winning journalist, most notably receiving the Pro Football Writers of America's Dick McCann Award in 2016."Mort was widely respected as an industry pioneer and universally beloved as a supportive, hard-working teammate," ESPN Chair Jimmy Pitaro wrote in a statement. "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."Many people who met Mortensen offered their condolences on social media, including Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning, who has been his colleague with ESPN as well. Adam Schefter, ESPN's NFL insider, has always had a close relationship with Mortensen. Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay also shared his thoughts on the loss.NFL Network's Rich Eisen and Daniel Jeremiah, who has been very public about the mentorship he got from Mortensen, were broadcasting the NFL Scouting Combine when the news broke. Eisen added, "I met Chris Mortensen when I was 26 years old when he was the G.O.A.T. in the making for the ‘Worldwide Leader in Sports’ at ESPN. He was one of the best football reporters that we’ve ever known. More condolences and prayers from around the NFL world poured in for the man they called 'Mort' on and off the gridiron."Condolences and memories from colleagues and friends alike showed the impact Mortensen had on the NFL world, with many expressing their admiration for his professionalism, kindness, and mentorship. His legacy as a pioneer in sports reporting and a beloved friend and colleague will be remembered and cherished in the hearts of many in the industry.