Chris Mortensen Releases Statement on Recovery from Throat Cancer

ESPN NFL analyst Chris Mortensen was diagnosed with Stage 4 throat cancer in January, but he recently received positive news regarding the progression of his treatment and recovery. 

In a statement released through ESPN MediaZone on Wednesday, the 64-year-old confirmed his scans revealed hopeful developments: 

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I received very encouraging news last week from my oncologist team of doctors at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center that now enables me to completely focus on recovery rather than treatment. The Stage IV throat (oropharyngel) cancer that was diagnosed in early January and treated with intensive chemotherapy and radiation has been virtually reduced to zero detection of the disease through the latest scans and exams.

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Mortensen added that he will continue to undergo scans and regularly scheduled exams "to monitor" his health. The veteran NFL reporter said he will begin to strengthen his body through rehab after his extended stay in the hospital resulted in "significant weight loss, strength, endurance and related health issues."

Mortensen also offered an update regarding his return to work at ESPN. 

While he didn't peg a specific date, Mortensen stated he anticipates "being able to participate in NFL coverage on a limited basis as the 2016 season gets underway."

"It has been a long and difficult road for Mort since he was diagnosed, so hearing his positive news is very encouraging," ESPN senior coordinating producer Seth Markman said in the statement. "As we have said all along, when Mort is able to return, his chair on our set will be waiting. He is a beloved member of our ESPN team, and we have really missed him these past few months."

Mortensen joined ESPN in 1991 and has been a staple of the station's NFL coverage ever since. His role as a senior NFL analyst has made him the face of several shows on the network, including NFL Insiders, Sunday NFL Countdown and Monday Night Countdown.