John Clayton, NFL Insider, Corridor of Famer, ESPN stalwart, and the person correctly nicknamed “The Professor”, kicked the bucket on Friday, March 18, 2022, on the age of 67.
No exact reason for demise has been launched although it used to be mentioned he suffered from a temporary sickness.
His demise got here as a surprise to the NFL neighborhood.
He had a Saturday morning ESPN Seattle radio display and used to be on Twitter dissecting the Russell Wilson business and examining the aftermath of it just a little over every week sooner than his demise.
Wilson paid homage to Clayton with a temporary however heartfelt Tweet.
We will be able to all leave out your phrases and brilliance @JohnClaytonNFL #RIPJohnClayton
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) March 19, 2022
Clayton used to be each astute within the sport’s nuances and a likable persona on digital camera.
Chris Mortensen of ESPN narrated this tribute to Clayton when information of his demise turned into public.
From one Corridor-of-Famer to any other, @mortreport’s touching tribute to John Clayton: %.twitter.com/zrO7zkAONY
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 19, 2022
Here’s how the NFL international reacted to the stunning information.
A Type And Worrying Particular person
Sean Salisbury, who used to be on ESPN and labored carefully with Clayton, shared his ideas.
Superior pal of the display and a very long time expensive pal to .@SeanUnfiltered , a sort human being!
He’ll be neglected .
Might he Relaxation In Peace #JohnClayton #welostagreatonetoday %.twitter.com/npffz44WTW
— The Sean Salisbury Display (@SSalisburyShow) March 19, 2022
A couple of colleague or former colleague described Clayton as a really perfect mentor and any individual all the time keen to assist the more youthful newshounds, specifically, who have been simply beginning out.
He used to be beneficiant together with his time and skills and used to be liked for his humorousness and zest for existence.
John Clayton used to be the kindest particular person. This used to be my first sideline task for the NFL. He discovered me, gave me recommendation, gave me some knowledge for the printed and as all the time, sought after to speak about Braddock, PA. Thanks for the whole lot John, I’m so thankful to your friendship. RIP ♥️ %.twitter.com/i28uOSexT0
— Pleasure Taylor (@JoyTaylorTalks) March 19, 2022
My pal of twenty-two years John Clayton died. He used to be a kind of colleagues who used to be now not handiest all the time keen that will help you, however went above and past to assist. He took his paintings severely, with all his information and spreadsheets, however now not himself. RIP to a gentleman and Corridor of Famer.
— Seth Wickersham (@SethWickersham) March 19, 2022
All people have been so lucky to grasp John Clayton, a large in his box whose monumental luck used to be rooted in kindness and a real love for the sport. RIP Professor, thanks such a lot for all of the perception, and all of the laughs. %.twitter.com/IUMVUvQlq8
— Mike Greenberg (@Espngreeny) March 19, 2022
A lot of Clayton’s former ESPN colleagues posted the video in their favourite SportsCenter industrial that confirmed the opposite facet of Clayton who used to be fun-loving and up for the rest.
John Clayton, a first class NFL insider and our liked longtime ESPN colleague, died nowadays.
He additionally starred within the largest This Is SportsCenter industrial of all time.
RIP, John%.twitter.com/5s5H0gQZcu
— Don Van Natta Jr. (@DVNJr) March 19, 2022
Commissioner Goodell’s Commentary About Clayton
Roger Goodell, the NFL commissioner, issued a remark.
“John Clayton, one of the crucial first “Insiders,” helped convey lovers nearer to the sport they beloved. For 5 many years, he lined the league with unending power and professionalism. He earned my super appreciate and admiration as a journalist however extra importantly as a phenomenal particular person, in particular because it pertains to the affection, care, and devotion to his spouse Pat. We will be able to leave out John and ship our inner most condolences to Pat and his sister Amy.”
