John Clayton passed away today at a Seattle area hospital. His wife Pat and sister Amy were at his side and communicated earlier he passed peacefully after a brief illness.
We loved John. We are mourning his loss.
Pat has asked the to release further information.
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Chris Mortensen
@mortreport
Jesus follower. Matthew 22:36-40. Husband, Father, Veteran. Cancer journey. Son of Honduran immigrant. Avatar: son Alex as a Razorback QB. Opinions are my own.
Anywhere, USAJoined April 2009
Chris Mortensen’s Tweets
The lawsuit filed by Brian Flores is as courageous and, in my opinion, as necessary an action that I can remember in covering 50 years of sports.
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Message I got from Brian Flores and His team About this lawsuit: “It was time to stop being quiet about the injustices that are happening. This was long overdue. There’s plenty of racism that need to be exposed.”
Ron Rivera was fired Tuesday by but he didn’t wallow in self pity. The son of a Vietnam Veteran (Eugenio Rivera) headed to visit his Seal Teams two & four friends in Virginia Beach. #leadership
The oncology team had good news on scans and blood panels - cancer still present in lungs but minimal or stable. Back in 3 months. Translation: I have a higher risk of being run over in ESPN parking lot by than cancer killing me at this stage
Legendary NFL coach Marty Schottenheimer, (77), peacefully passed away with family at his
side on Monday, February 8, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Schottenheimer had been
battling Alzheimer’s since 2014.
Unspeakable incident. Unacceptable. Near tragic. Thankfully, nobody seriously injured.
Also tells you more about .
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More on You Tube video: Raiders source says Gruden was truly amused by it and even thought it was "awesome."
That's all. Next.
Then there’s this as the cancer journey continues with too many in the same fight. Nevertheless, here’s my #BETHERESmile inspired by all those kids and staff. #NationalSmileDay #WreckingBall #TakeYourBestShot
Henry “Hank” Aaron passed away at 86. 💔
This hits hard. Great man. Strong man. Gentleman.
More than home run king.
He was so kind and so insightful.
Big fan. Told me a story more than 30 years ago about sitting in Dawg Pound with his mask
I loved him. #RIPHankAaron
The odd vibe between the and Kyler Murray is indeed alarming:
Murray is described as self-centered, immature and finger pointer, per sources.
Murray is frustrated with franchise and was embarrassed by playoff loss to Rams and thinks he’s been framed as the scapegoat
Reports about Deshaun Watson's unhappiness with are accurate and sources close to the QB say he is still angry about team's insensitivity to social justice, including hiring practices, after the franchise failed to interview Chiefs OC Eric Bienemy this past week.
Phillip Rivers has confirmed to and me that he and his family have moved out of his San Diego home to Florida. His text: "What this means football wise is to be determined but it was time for us to move back closer to home."
This is the most negative barrage of comments I have received about a game’s lack of integrity and that’s not even counting Giants-related bias.
Consensus from those in NFL and who have been associated with it: Disgrace.
That’s not the fault of the Washington Football Team.
Antonio Brown's grievance to recoup some his $30 million in guaranteed money took a hit in discovery when the submitted multiple text messages from Brown to owner Mark Davis, asking for his release, per sources. The Raiders obliged Sept. 7.
Word is Vontae Davis put on his street clothes at half, said he was quitting and left the stadium, per another source
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Lorenzo Alexander says he was told at start of second half that Vontae Davis quit and retired.
Here's Tua's Pro Day footage obtained from an NFL team. Enjoy the thread. (1/7)
Bears GM Ryan Pace deserves love. Aside from Khalil Mack trade and other maneuvers, in 2017 NFL Draft he got the QB of his choice (maybe not others’) but in 4th round grabbed Eddie Jackson and Tarik Cohen. Hired Nagy & persuaded DC Fangio to stay.
Freddie Kitchens will be named new Browns head coach later today, per sources.
There’s no debating I struck GOLD 36 years ago with my beautiful wife Micki...through sickness and health. Happy Anniversary, Sweetie!
Josh Allen and the have agreed to a 6 year contract extension through 2027, per sources.
Contract details to come but needless you say the money is significant.
The Panthers and Teddy Bridgewater are negotiating a 3-year contract in the $60 million range, per source. The deal is not done as they work out details but it is expected to be complete when new league year opens Wednesday.
Vontaze Burfict is facing a season-long suspension for his late conduct on field, per source.
Never should have come to this. Give him back his Heisman Trophy.
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Andrew Luck (per ) retiring at this age (29, 30 on Sept. 12) and stage is more stunning than the retirements of Jim Brown, Barry Sanders and anyone else you want to name.
This the kind of care and love I have consistently witnessed and experienced in hospitals. Nurses, caretakers...countless others... humanity at its finest. I don’t like the idea of being in a hospital but I always walk out feeling humbled, energized, enriched. twitter.com/kwilli1046/sta
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Colin Kaepernick schedule in phases today begins at 3 pm with prelim workout (presumably measurables will be done), 4 pm for more scripted passing with receivers, then interviews, per personnel sources
The Atlanta Falcons indoor facility is the stage.
Craig Sager said in March while he hadn't won his battle with cancer, he had not lost it yet, either. Craig, you didn't lose. You won.
Bills T Dee Ford lost his playoff paycheck on this play and Clowney gets nothing. 🤔
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I understand the rules but it's still crazy that the first play in this clip resulted in a penalty and $28,075 fine and the second play resulted in no fine or penalty.
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Al Michaels with line of the day after Antonio Brown landed in Rhode Island via private jet.... (paraphrasing) Good thing he (Brown) didn't have to go through baggage claim because he brought a lot of baggage
Darren Sproles, 35, is playing his first playoff game today as an player but what was supposed to be his final season may not be final. He has mentioned to teammates and staff he seriously could want another year in NFL. Eagles are 4-1 since he returned from injury.
🙏
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"Double thumbs up! MRI and CT scans are clear. No evidence of cancer."
#KellyTough | via @HJKforever
Please take a moment to watch this amazing tribute to
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Sources say Watson could play hardball with Texans about a trade. His new $156 million contract includes a no-trade clause but informed speculation from a source is that he would consider the in which Tua Tagovailoa and additional compensation goes to Houston.
Filed to ESPN: Five-time NFL MVP Peyton Manning will announce his retirement Monday in Denver per source familiar with the QB's decision
Lol. I am old but my heart is full. I do have cancer. I have today but I plan to be doing next year's #NFLDraft for ESPN, God willing.
Jason Witten is planning to retire after 15 years to join ESPN's new Monday Night Football broadcast team as a lead analyst but will meet today with owner Jerry Jones before making his decision final, per sources.
This is going to be so good
Sources: Lamar Jackson rejected a Ravens' 6-yr contract offer with $133 million fully guaranteed at signing, which is more than Russell Wilson ($124 million) and Kyler Murray ($103.3 million) but well short of the $230 million fully guaranteed deal that Deshaun Watson got.
Seems you’re going places, per sources. 🤷🏼♂️😂
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The brother I never knew: PFC William C. Mortesen(sic), KIA, Korea, July 29, 1950
Hall of Fame GM Ron Wolf said the and others who embrace an analytics-driven model are "out of control."
Wolf: "When something goes wrong, who takes responsibility?
"Their answer: `Well, that's what the data told us.' What a crock. That's what got 'em 1-31."
Happy Anniversary to the love of my life, Micki, the 37th of our marriage.
Proof there is a God!
This recent photo taken in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.
I love you, sweetie!!!
The Dolphins have granted permission to DB Minkah Fitzpatrick to seek a trade, according to multiple sources who say Miami's asking price is too high. Dolphins have no comment. Story coming with help from
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord...
“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”
Luke 2:11-14
Ezekiel Elliott 6 game suspension has been upheld by Harold Henderson, per source
Amen 🙏🏻
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Two things before a Jill update: First, she didn’t want to do the photo. Then, after we did, and I said I could write a story about her, she smiled and said, “I can’t wait for you to go back to work so you can write stories about someone else!” She’s great and done with chemo!
Bills receiver Cole Beasley has been fined multiple times for Covid protocol violations for a cumulative sum in the range of $100,000 per league and union sources. Beasley was fined $14,600 in August on a day league officials were in the facility to review the protocols.
Bills QB Josh Allen is being evaluated for an elbow injury to his ulnar collateral ligament and related nerves, per source.
Bills coach Sean McDermott said earlier team hopes to have more info Tuesday.
Vikings QB Teddy Bridgewater has been cleared to practice by doctor who performed the surgery on his dislocated knee, according to source
Josh Allen just text that he threw this post-game pass to his Mom and Dad, who traveled from California to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, where the team allowed 13,000 fans to attend Sunday. That's a good son.
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Andrew Luck admitted hearing fans boo him walking off field hurt.
Knowing Indianapolis fans, most who did boo will regret it if they already don’t
Mike Golic Jr. just explained . "Even when we turn off our mics, you still get to be our Dad..." ❤️#ThankYouGolic
The news of John Saunders' death could not be more crushing. We all loved him dearly. We grieve. We will miss him. Can't replace the man.
I’ll be very surprised if he is not an NFL head coach in 2020. This says plenty.
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On the day I was traded to the @Panthers in 2011, every player who played for Ron in Chicago said the same thing to me on my way out. “You are going to play for a great coach, but a better man”.
I am so proud to have shared this 9 yr journey together with you @RiverboatRonHC
Happy Golden Anniversary to Archie and Olivia Manning, two of the finest people are Earth. ❤️❤️
#50years
#FirstFamilyofFootball
Dont need to say anything 😢❤️🙏🏻
Talked or text with number of NFL coaches/execs who are nervous about COVID-19 testing today with the number of players who visited their former college teams’ opening games (and social gatherings) this past weekend.
Sal Paolantonio reports that Carson Wentz’s wife has been escorted to Eagles locker area.
Once Wentz was removed from medical tent to locker room for further concussion testing, it raised level of concern for .
It’s a medical decision. No official word yet.
Good vibes all around .
Jacob Eason and Sam Ehlinger are competing for the backup role.
Yes, the backup role.
Carson Wentz trending to open the season as the starter with All-Pro G Quenton Nelson on same path after foot surgeries.
The Colts open season vs. Seahawks.
One of the rewarding experiences in 30 years at ESPN has been working with my dear friend , the best of the best.
Happy Birthday, Adam, and many more!
DJ with a little exaggeration but I can tell you I wouldn’t be as strong in my faith without his Dad, , one of the great renown pastors whose Bible teaching was instrumental in leading me to the Lord. That’s how we met. I win on that one. 🙏🏻
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"I wouldn't be anywhere near where I am today if it wasn't for Chris Mortensen."
What a moment between @Movethesticks and @mortreport 
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Sounds like Sean Payton and coaches are going to get a "win" after NFC title loss: The inclusion of non-calls on DPI in final two minutes via replay assistant has a very good chance of being approved today on amended replay review proposals, per sources.
The should be pretty encouraged that Joe Judge has connected with his team, assembled a pretty strong staff and the players are buying in.
Hello again to a pillar of my #cancer journey. I find God’s image everywhere here - in the faces, minds, hearts and compassion s of all who work here. Thank you,
Peyton Manning takes page from Wilt's book- photo with Demaryius Thomas of record 509 TD ball before Canton-bound
The NFL will investigate the specific allegations that Brian Flores has made concerning Dolphins owner Stephen Ross offering him $100,000 per-loss incentives in 2019 to gain a better draft position, a league source said. Other potential rules violations also will be investigated.
Peyton Manning notified by NFL he is fined $8,200 for taunting of DJ Swearinger. No appeal. Peyton: "I accept it. Money well spent."
Chiefs coach Andy Reid is benching....himself. He has has planned to hand over play calling to OC Matt Nagy for today's game vs. Jets although Reid will continue to have oversight, per team sources.
ESPN MondayNight Football analyst Louis Riddick is interviewing today for the Houston Texans’ general manager job, sources tell and me.
Riddick then will interview Friday with the Lions.
Josh Allen won’t be playing as a Pro Bowl alternate QB. #BillsMafia
Unsolicited text from a GM this a.m.:
“I can’t lie - got emotional driving up to the stadium and seeing all the fans. Very grateful to get what I get to do. Will never take it for granted. I drove around for 20 mins and just took it all in”
Kellen Moore will remain as the Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator in 2021, bypassing an opportunity to return to his alma mater at Boise St as HC, per league sources to and me.
Cowboys expect to sign Moore to an extension, per sources.
DeSean Jackson and are destined for each other again, barring the unforeseen, as and reported last night.
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Josh Allen is now the most underrated QB in the NFL. The narrative has become embarrassing.
👏👏
A message from the family of Marty Schottenheimer, updating his health condition.
For Deshaun Watson, the price has been some combination of 5 high draft picks and starting caliber players, per two league executives.
Doug Pederson’s status as coach is not firm, sources tell and me.
Pederson could be out if owner Jeffrey Lurie is not confident about Pederson’s vision going forward after the two meet again soon.
Lurie’s concerns extend well beyond Carson Wentz, per sources.
Carson Wentz said if expectant wife Madison goes into labor today, they decided he would still play for .
Wentz won't miss next week's game, either.
Madison's doctors plan to induce labor Monday when Mom & Dad expect to welcome their second healthy baby girl into the world.
Matt Ryan has agreed to a 5 year extension with that makes him first $30 mill per year QB w $100 mill guaranteed, per league and team sources.
Kickers need to make the routine kicks and we wouldn't be talking about this.
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Two weeks in the NFL and two ties. Over time rules need to change. Pro football should have a winner and a loser.
Rams OC Liam Coen assisted in Baker Mayfield’s rushed prep for TNF dramatics but he is headed back to as OC, he job he had in 2021, according to sources. UK fans can relax.
Eagles have fielded - not solicited - more than one inquiry and offer for Nick Foles. Eagles' basic answer is it's going to take more than the 1st and 4th round picks they got from Vikings for Sam Bradford. Foles is Super Bowl MVP and best insurance policy in NFL.
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You mean New Jersey?
Bills are doing fine in NY.
Happy for a great man. Our loss at ESPN but the young men at Arizona State will have a life experience they will carry with them forever.
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Welcome Coach Edwards!
Press release: thesundevils.com/news/2017/12/3
On Matthew Stafford, the have Super Bowl-caliber roster.
Even w/ retirement of LT Anthony Castonzo, O-line would offer Matthew Stafford a refuge in pass protection, a physical but diverse backfield with a very promising group of receivers.
That's one team, for sure.
Anyone trying to move Matt Ryan to Pittsburgh as Ben Roethlisberger’s successor can put that speculation to rest.
Falcons coach Arthur Smith wanted Ryan to return when he took the job & he has made it clear to owner Arthur Blank and GM Terry Fontenot that Ryan is his QB for 2022
Remarkable story shared here by the inspirational wife of after extensive surgery today. Let’s be prayer warriors for the Kellys!
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Surgery is complete.
Thank GOD and the amazing team of doctors and nurses that took care of Jim… instagram.com/p/Bg42a1wAkNM/
One NFC GM observations from Thursday night's game:
1. The have superstar QB in Justin Herbert to build a fan base.
2. Anthony Lynn should remain as coach, won 12 games two years ago, and deserves to be part of the fix.
3. Marcus Mariota looked like an NFL starter.
Final thought (I hope) before I fall asleep: If there was social media 50 years ago, 40 years ago, 30 years ago, 20 years ago, I believe a lot of we see today would be fairly normal or perhaps even tame compared to those eras.
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