NFL Broadcaster Chris Mortensen Dies at 71: Trust ‘in the Lord Only’
By Movieguide® Contributor
ESPN NFL broadcaster Chris Mortensen died on Sunday at the age of 71. He was a firm believer in Christ.
“Our faith and trust is to be in the Lord and the Lord only,” he said on Sports Spectrum’s podcast in 2021. “It’s not in man, because man will let us down. The flesh lets us down. We all know that. That’s why the Lord sends a Savior.”
“We know we’re gonna have trials and tribulations in life; it’s in the Bible,” he expressed. “We know there’s going to be many discouraging times, and we’re gonna be put to the test. And that’s gonna be from start to finish.
“… I’ve had low moments, certainly low moments. And I’ve had to say, ‘I just give up, Lord. You take it. All these six things right now are overwhelming me. You take it. I can’t handle it.’ And you know what? He does,” he added.
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No specific cause of death is known, but Mortensen had been battling throat cancer for several years.
“Mort was widely respected as an industry pioneer and universally beloved as a supportive, hardworking teammate. He covered the NFL with extraordinary skill and passion, and was at the top of his field for decades,” said ESPN president Jimmy Pitaro. “He will truly be missed by colleagues and fans, and our hearts and thoughts are with his loved ones.”
Other sports stars in the industry paid their respects to Mortensen.
Peyton Manning posted, “Heartbroken. 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.”
Pray for the friends and family of Mortensen as they grieve the unexpected loss of a loved one.
Movieguide® previously reported on Mortensen:
Long-time ESPN NFL announcer Chris Mortensen revealed that he has stepped away from his position to focus on his family and faith.
In a recent X post, Mortensen wrote, “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.”
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