Chris Mortensen, who covered the NFL for ESPN, died Sunday at the age of 72.

Mortensen had been with ESPN since 1991.

“Mort was widely respected as an industry pioneer and universally beloved as a supportive, hard-working teammate,” Jimmy Pitaro, chairman of ESPN, said in a statement. “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.”

In 2016, Mortensen announced he was diagnosed with Stage 4 throat cancer. He stepped away from his role at ESPN last year. He received as Pro Football Writers of America’s Dick McCann Award winner and was honored during the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s enshrinement ceremony in August that year.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reacted to the news on social media.

“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.”

His son, Alex, is the offensive coordinator at UAB. Before UAB, Alex Mortensen worked under Nick Saban for nine years as a graduate assistant (2014-16) and an offensive analyst (2017-22). He was a part of three national championships at Alabama and amassed a record of 115-12 while in Tuscaloosa.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.