The world of sports journalism is mourning the loss of one of its most respected figures, as ESPN reporter and analyst Chris Mortensen passed away at the age of 72. Mortensen was known for his insightful analysis, in-depth reporting, and unwavering dedication to his craft. His career spanned over four decades, during which he covered some of the biggest moments in sports history.
Mortensen's impact on the industry cannot be overstated. He was a trailblazer in sports journalism, breaking barriers and setting new standards for excellence. His work ethic and passion for the game were evident in every broadcast and article he produced.
Mortensen joined ESPN in 1991 and was a regular contributor to the network's NFL shows and "SportsCenter." He was a regular news breaker for ESPN, including the news in 2016 that quarterback Peyton Manning was retiring from the NFL.
Dick McCann Award and was honored during the Pro Football Hall of Fame's enshrinement ceremony in August that year.
Throughout his career, he received 18 journalism awards and two Pulitzer Prize nominations. Starting as a journalist at the South Bay Daily Breeze in 1969, he won the National Headliner Award for investigative reporting in all categories in 1978. A Torrance, Calif., native, Mortensen attended El Camino College before serving two years in the Army.
George Polk Award in 1987 for his reporting. He then covered the NFL for The National Sports Daily, a now-defunct newspaper, before he joined ESPN.
In 1991, he published a book, "Playing for Keeps: How One Man Kept the Mob from Sinking Its Hooks into Pro Football."
A native of Torrance, California, Mortensen attended El Camino College. He served two years in the Army before he began his journalism career at the South Bay (Calif.) Daily Breeze in 1969.
"An absolutely devastating day. Mort was one of the greatest reporters in sports history, and an even better man," ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter said on social media. "Mort was the very best. He will be forever missed and remembered."
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