Chris Mortensen has left ESPN, the longtime NFL insider announced on Tuesday.
Mortensen has been with the network for over three decades.
“Excited about another season but it’s time to reveal after my 33rd NFL draft in April, I made a decision to step away from ESPN and focus on my health, family and faith,” he wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. “The gratitude and humility is overwhelming. It’s not a classic retirement. I’ll still be here talking ball. It’s just time. God Bless you all.”
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Mortensen, 71, joined ESPN in 1991.
His ESPN colleagues shared their congratulations on X.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter: There has been no greater honor than to work with, and learn from, a man on ESPN’s Mount Rushmore. He has been an exemplary husband, father, friend and co-worker. He paved the way in this industry. He is a legend. Thank you for all you did for ESPN and so many, Mort. Love you.
ESPN NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski: Best of the best. What an honor it’s been to spend time with Mort and learn from him. A true titan in this industry and an inspiration in every aspect of his remarkable life and career.
The Athletic’s NFL insider, Dianna Russini, who recently left ESPN: Congratulations to one of the best to ever do it. A remarkable reporter and an even better friend to so many along the way. An insider with great information who always made covering football fun. Go enjoy all the joys in life Chris, you deserve it all.
Mortensen took a leave of absence in 2016 while battling throat cancer, and returned to ESPN after a successful surgery. Before joining the network, he wrote for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Bridget Hyland may be reached at [email protected]
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