Renowned sports journalist Chris Mortensen has left an indelible mark on the world of football reporting. Mortensen, who passed away at the age of 72, was known for his passionate coverage on ESPN and his unwavering commitment to delivering top-notch sports news.
Born on November 7, 1951, in Torrance, California, Mortensen’s journey into sports journalism was a fascinating one. After serving in the US Army during the Vietnam War, Mortensen struggled to find his footing in the early days of his career. Despite his background in multi-sport athletics, Mortensen opted to pursue a career in sports reporting, a decision that ultimately shaped his legacy.
Mortensen’s career highlights include winning the National Headliner Award for Investigative Reporting in all categories in 1978. He later went on to work for prestigious publications such as The National Sports Daily and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, where he covered the Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Falcons, and the NFL.
In 1991, Mortensen made his debut on ESPN, where he became a staple on programs such as NFL GameDay, Sunday NFL Countdown, and SportsCenter. His contributions to ESPN’s coverage of the NFL draft were highly regarded by fans and colleagues alike.
In 2016, Mortensen revealed his battle with Stage 4 throat cancer, but that didn’t deter him from continuing his work at ESPN. After 33 years at the network, Mortensen retired in September of 2023 to focus on his health, family, and faith.
Mortensen’s son, Alex Mortensen, also carved out a successful career in football, transitioning from a player to a coach. Alex’s coaching journey led him to various teams, including the New Mexico Highlands University Cowboys, the St. Louis Rams, and the Birmingham Iron of the Alliance of American Football.
The tragic loss of Chris Mortensen has left a void in the world of sports journalism. Colleagues like Peyton Manning and Adam Schefter have paid tribute to his legacy, highlighting his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to the craft.
As we mourn the passing of a true legend, we remember Chris Mortensen for his remarkable contributions to the world of sports reporting and the impact he had on those who knew and admired him. Rest in peace, Mort. Your legacy will forever be cherished in the hearts of sports fans around the world.
