Longtime sports journalist Chris Mortensen, who built an extraordinary career delivering sports news to Atlanta and eventually a nationwide audience on ESPN, died today at 72.
He started his career as one of Atlanta’s most well-regarded local sports journalists, writing for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution from 1983 to 1990, where he produced investigative reports on the Atlanta Braves from 1983 to 1985, and then the Atlanta Falcons the next two years. He would also cover the broader NFL for the paper as well. His reporting of local sports won him the George Polk Award in 1987.
Mortensen headed to a national platform when he joined ESPN in 1991. There he would cover the NFL with programs like “NFL GameDay”, “NFL Countdown” and “Sunday NFL Countdown”. He also reported for ESPN’s popular sports show SportsCenter, ESPN Radio, and the ESPN website.
He also was an NFL reporter for The National and contributed stories for The Sporting News, Sport magazine, and CBS Sports.
Atlanta Falcons Chairman and Owner Arthur Blank said in a statement today: “I join the immeasurable number of hearts across the nation, in journalism and the sports community, as we morn Chris Mortensen. I’m grateful to have had the privilege of knowing Chris through his incredible work beginning at his days at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and like so many, being blessed by his professional excellence and personal grace through the many years that followed. I consider Chris a personal hero of mine and it is truly hard to imagine sports journalism without him. His ability to take on life’s obstacles with grit and determination was always truly inspiring and his enormous impact on so many, me included, will live on through his work and unwavering friendships. I send my deepest condolences to Chris’ family and friends, and pray they find peace in the honorable legacy and positive influence that Chris leaves behind.”
ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro said in a statement, “Mort was widely respected as an industry pioneer and universally beloved as a supportive, hard-working teammate. 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.”
Legendary quarterback Peyton Manning, whose career Mortensen extensively covered at ESPN, said on social media, “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.”
Others in the sports community sent thoughts and statements about Mortensen.
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. https://t.co/7b7Im0vIFs
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 3, 2024
One of the best ever…Covered Atlanta sports, Falcons beat writer among all the teams here…One of the 1st true NFL insiders in the league. Absolutely a transformative talent…RIP Mort https://t.co/6fGDudnMVT
— Jon M Chuckery (@jmch316) March 3, 2024
One of the kindest and funniest people I’ve encountered in our industry. Chris was incredibly supportive of me long before we were colleagues on TV; he had a rare combination of wit and warmth, and made everyone around him better at their jobs. I feel lucky to have known him. https://t.co/tuihZsVRXf
— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) March 3, 2024
Crushing.
Mort was a delight to be around and nice to everyone. https://t.co/6GO1ErOTpz
— Rich Eisen (@richeisen) March 3, 2024
We lost a great member of The Fan Family. Condolences to his family and friends. https://t.co/zDOcv6sV0O
— nick cellini (@CelliniNick) March 3, 2024
Oh no. Truly one of the sweetest people I have met in life. Mort helped me so much personally and professionally. A true legend and ambassador or the craft but more so, humanity. Condolences to his family. Rest in power Mort. 🙏🏾 https://t.co/lNj2kw5ta7
— Steve Wyche (@wyche89) March 3, 2024
One of my idols growing up. His contributions to our world will never be matched.
Condolences to his family. https://t.co/jfWr4K03bs
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 3, 2024
Crushed. Chris has meant so much to so many of us for so long. Worked together together at AJC. He recently sent sent me nice note after I retired. Exchanged messages. Said, “Let me know if there’s anything I can do for you.” He did this when he was in declining health. Prayers. https://t.co/ho8ZNRUS7p
— Jeff Schultz (@JeffSchultzATL) March 3, 2024
Mort set the standard in the sports insider industry. He was smart, connected, humble, and supportive. My favorite trait was his sense of humor. In a business filled with people who may take this all too seriously at times, he always provided comedy. He loved his wife and family… https://t.co/TSycLYpBQR
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 3, 2024
Sad news. Good guy. https://t.co/Vhps9ls062
— fred kalil (@fredkalil) March 3, 2024
Another great one has left us. So sad to hear of Chris Mortensen’s passing. Mort was a dear friend, and an award-winning legend. My heart goes out to his family ❤️🙏
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) March 3, 2024
Image credit: ESPN
