It’s been a year since ESPN lost Stuart Scott to cancer. Now, the network will temporarily lose another distinguished, on-air talent.
Senior NFL analyst Chris Mortensen announced he will be off the air as he begins treatments for throat cancer, per ESPN.
"More than a week ago, I was diagnosed with a Stage IV throat cancer," Mortensen said in a statement Friday. "My focus shifted significantly to gathering information about the specifics of this cancer. The initial diagnosis was confirmed Friday and there is another test remaining that will determine the best possible treatment plan that will commence in the very immediate future.
"Consequently, with the support and encouragement from ESPN president John Skipper and many others at ESPN, I am temporarily stepping away from my normal NFL coverage duties to better engage this opportunity to fight the good fight that is projected to affect almost 1.7 million Americans with new cases in 2016.
"I have many inspirational examples of men, women and children who have faced this very fight. We all know somebody, right? I also have the love and prayers of my wife Micki, my family, my friends, colleagues and, most of all, my faith that serve as sources of tremendous strength. I have a peace about this and look forward to the battle."
Fortunately, Mortensen will not be alone in his battle with cancer. Encouraging words and best wishes came pouring in after the news was announced.
Couldn’t ask for a better mentor or teammate than @mortreport . Thinking of you, man. Be strong.
— Dan Graziano (@DanGrazianoESPN) January 15, 2016
Have the highest level of respect for @mortreport as a professional, a friend, and a man. Wishing him all the best. #mortimer
— Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) January 15, 2016
Big thoughts & prayers go out to 1 of the really good ones @mortreport as he battles cancer! Chris, give 'em hell. LOTS of folks behind U.
— Mike Costa (@costa1360) January 15, 2016
Mortensen joined ESPN in 1991. The network -- hopefully in just the short term -- will miss his talents.
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Seriously, someone run a BAC test on @mortreport https://t.co/yuiAzu3yNV
— 610 (@610Barstool) May 1, 2015
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