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Chris Mortensen. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Longtime NFL reporter retires from ESPN

By Adam Gretz | Last updated 9/5/23

ESPN is losing another prominent name, but this time it is due to retirement and not widespread layoffs or a departure for a rival network.

Longtime NFL reporter Chris Mortensen announced on Tuesday that he stepped away from the network following the completion of the NFL Draft in April so he could further focus on his family, friends and his health.

Mortensen explained his decision on Tuesday on the social media platform X:

"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. 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."

Mortensen had been with the network for more than 30 years and became one of the networks most prominent and trusted NFL insiders. He briefly stepped away from the network in 2016 while battling throat cancer but was eventually able to return to the network.

Several of Mortensen's longtime colleagues, both past and present, shared the admiration and respect for him as well as wishing him luck in the future.

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.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 5, 2023

When I was young and just starting out at ESPN a quarter of a century ago, Mort, who was the King at the time, always treated me with respect and as a peer that left an impression on me I haven't forgotten. https://t.co/2Tyc4D04dg
— BucciOT.Com (@Buccigross) September 5, 2023

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. https://t.co/sSDsYp4vQo
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) September 5, 2023

All will miss your presence, your humor and your incredibly detailed reporting. Few will miss you more than I will for your advice, wisdom and friendship. Nobody has meant more to me than you, @mortreport.
God bless you and Micki and Alex. See you on the golf course in May. https://t.co/pXqVcYnLeQ
— Ed Werder (@WerderEdESPN) September 5, 2023

The 71-year-old Mortensen was a staple of ESPN's NFL coverage, playing prominent roles on its NFL Draft coverage as well as being a top insider for "Sunday NFL Countdown" and "Monday Night Countdown."

Mortensen's statement does lead to some questions on what might be next for him. Specifying that it is not a "traditional" retirement and that he would still be around to "talk ball" is definitely eye-opening. Whether that means just being active on social media and still reporting news he hears or learns independently, or just literally talking football like a fan remains to be seen.

Whatever the case, ESPN's NFL coverage is going to be very different without one of its most consistent names and faces on TV.

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