Clayton was 67 years old.
“John was a pioneer as an NFL insider, but also one of the kindest people you could ever work with,” ESPN vice president and executive producer Seth Markman said, according to the network.
“He literally never turned down a show that asked him to come — from 6am to midnight, if you asked for a professor, he was there for you. I also personally remember how he loved and cared for his beloved. wife Pat since she battled multiple sclerosis. We will all miss John very much.”
Clayton, a Pittsburgh native, began his career as a sports reporter in 1972 covering the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to Seattle Sports.
“We are very saddened by the news of the passing of John Clayton,” the Steelers said. tweet. “He was a Pittsburgh media icon who covered the Steelers for over a decade in the 1970s and 1980s … Our thoughts are with his wife, Pat, during this difficult time.” Later in his career, Clayton will cover the Seattle Seahawks for the Tacoma News Tribune, said the Seahawks, who said they “heartbroken” learn about his death.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame, of which Clayton was a selection committee member, expressed its condolences on Instagram, stating that Clayton “will miss the impact and contribution to the game of football.”
Russell Wilson, former star quarterback for the Seahawks. said he would miss Clayton’s “words and brilliance”.