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Chris Mortensen, Longtime NFL Reporter and ESPN Journalist, Dies at 72

Originally posted on Tennessee Titans on SI
By Dustin Schutte | Last updated Mar 3, 2024 5:38 PM ET

Chris Mortensen, a longtime journalist at ESPN and well-known NFL reporter, died on Sunday. ESPN released a statement regarding his passing. Mortensen was 72.

"ESPN is very sorry to share this devastating news," the network wrote in social media post. "Award-winning journalist Chris Mortensen passed away this morning at the age of 72."

Details regarding Mortensen's sudden passing were unknown at the time of this report.

"Mort was widely respected as an industry pioneer and universally beloved as a supportive, hard-working teammate," wrote ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro. "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."

Mortensen joined ESPN in 1991 and became one of the most trusted NFL reporters in the industry. After learning the tragic news, NFL Network honored the longtime journalist at the end of its coverage of the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine.

.@movethesticks and @richeisen honor the memory of the legendary Chris Mortensen, who passed away today at the age of 72.

Our thoughts are with his family and the ESPN family. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/ehkj1BYar2
— NFL (@NFL) March 3, 2024

Fellow ESPN reporter Adam Schefter also sent out a heartfelt message on X following the tragic news.

"An absolutely devastating day. Mort was one of the greatest reporters in sports history, and an even better man," Schefter wrote. "Sincerest condolences to his family, and all who knew and loved him. So many did. Mort was the very best. He will be forever missed and remembered."

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport also expressed his condolences.

"One of my idols growing up," Rapoport wrote on X. "His contributions to our world will never be matched. Condolences to his family."

This article first appeared on Tennessee Titans on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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