NFL reporter John Clayton dies – dead at 67

NFL reporter John Clayton died on Friday at the age of 67.

One of his former colleagues, Chris Mortensen, shared that Clayton died at a Seattle-area hospital following a brief illness.

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 @Seahawks to release further information.

— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) March 19, 2022

Clayton was a well-known NFL reporter. He began his career covering the Seattle Seahawks and Pittsburgh Steelers on local levels. Then he was hired by ESPN in 1995 to cover the broader NFL.

Nicknamed “The Professor,” Clayton became a regular presence on ESPN from 1995-2017. He was also known for his debate show “Four Downs” with Sean Salisbury.

Clayton later became known for his appearances on KJR radio in Seattle, where he hosted a show.

A few colleagues shared their tributes to the beloved reporter.

I'm posting a notice of personal friend and hall of fame broadcaster John Clayton @JohnClaytonNFL passing today at 3pm. Condolences to Pat and family. pic.twitter.com/JjU8sAfE1P

— Jeff Muzzy (@jeffmu) March 19, 2022

My friend of 22 years John Clayton died. He was one of those colleagues who was not only always eager to help you, but went above and beyond to help. He took his work seriously, with all his files and spreadsheets, but not himself. RIP to a gentleman and Hall of Famer.

— Seth Wickersham (@SethWickersham) March 19, 2022

John Clayton is simply one of the best people I've ever met. Gutted to hear we lost him.

What a pro. What a class act.

I loved seeing John's name flash on my phone because it meant I was about to spend the next hour laughing & talking football with John.

A huge loss. RIP, John

— Reuben Frank (@RoobNBCS) March 19, 2022

John Clayton was a treat on TV, inside the huddle, & had the best Sportscenter commercial.
He also helped grow @ESPN1000.
His hits w/ MJH were can’t miss.
1st seg news. 2nd seg questions from fans.
And then was a part of the show w/ @TWaddle87 & me for yrs. #RIP to a great man.

— Silvy (@WaddleandSilvy) March 19, 2022

Heavy heart to hear about John Clayton’s passing. He was a mentor and friend. Showed me how to work sources, break stories and find open restaurants at 3 am after making MNF deadlines. He made it all look so easy. A legendary reporter, insider and character.

— Marc Connolly (@mconnolly10) March 19, 2022

I remember working in Bristol and after John Clayton left a studio, a producer turned to me and said “he’s got more information on the NFL than the Commissioner”. He wasn’t wrong. Clayton really was “The Professor”. pic.twitter.com/1bPf8sQYrV

— Damon Bruce (@DamonBruce) March 19, 2022

Clayton became somewhat of a legend online when there was a humorous debate about whether or not he wore a ponytail. He showed off his fun personality by filming a classic “SportsCenter” commercial where he played off the humorous rumor.

What a great commercial, and what a beloved guy.