Chris Mortensen, who reported on the NFL for over three decades and made frequent appearances on Sunday NFL Countdown, Monday Night Countdown, SportsCenter, and more programs, has died at the age of 72. While a cause of death has not been made public, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 throat cancer in January 2016. He stepped down from his role at ESPN "to focus on my health, family and faith," last year.
In response to the tragic news, many voices in the sports world are speaking out on social media. Peyton Manning wrote on Instagram: "We lost a true legend. Mort was the best in the business and I cherished our friendship. I trusted him with my announcement to sign with the Broncos and with the news of my retirement. I will miss him dearly and my thoughts and prayers are with Micki & his family. Rest in peace, Mort."
Chris Mortensen Speaks With Roger Goodell On ESPN
Mortensen joined ESPN in 1991. His colleague at the network, Adam Schefter, also wrote on social media: "An absolutely devastating day. Mort was one of the greatest reporters in sports history, and an even better man. 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." Check out Manning and Schefter's posts on social media below.
Peyton Manning & Adam Schefter Mourn Chris Mortensen
Throughout his career in journalism, he was nominated for two Pulitzer Prizes. He also penned the book, Playing for Keeps: How One Man Stopped the Mob from Sinking its Hooks into Pro Football. Be on the lookout for further updates on the NFL on HotNewHipHop.
[Via]