Entertainment

NFL Reporter Shares Heartbreaking News of His Wife’s Passing Following ‘Catastrophic’ Medical Complication

Respected football journalist Jay Morrison, who covers the Cincinnati Bengals in the NFL, took to social media to share heartbreaking news about his wife, Nicki.

“For the first time in 14 years, I watched a Bengals game with my wife Nicki yesterday,” Jay posted on X on Monday, December 22. “It will be her last. A routine medical procedure on Friday took a tragic turn.”

Jay went on, “She has been on life support since, awaiting organ recipient matches, her final gift from a remarkably beautiful and selfless life. We will soon say our goodbyes and disconnect her from the machines.”

“My heart is shattered, and my world is in ruins,” Jay expressed.

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Jay, who currently reports on the Bengals for Sports Illustrated, announced he would be taking an “indefinite break” from work.

“For those who know me personally and wish to pay respects, there will not be a funeral,” Jay shared. “It’s something we discussed a few months back when my mom passed.”

Jay concluded, “Instead, we will hold a celebration of life once my daughter, son, and I gather the strength to plan a fitting tribute to the most beautiful, loving, bad-ass rock star I’m proud to have shared my life with for 37 years.”

Jay Morrison and wife Nicki
Jay Morrison and Nicki Heiligenberg Morrison Courtesy of Jay Morrison/Instagram

Nicki and Jay have a daughter named Veda, who got married in May, and a son named Braden.

Veda tied the knot with her wife, Bethany, on May 24, just three weeks after her parents’ anniversary.

“It was one of the happiest and proudest days of Nicki’s life,” Jay exclusively told Us Weekly on Tuesday, December 23.

Jay commemorated his and Nicki’s 32nd wedding anniversary on social media in May, referring to her as “impossibly patient and understanding.”

“I could never have known exactly what this life would bring when we met, but there was never a doubt that whatever came our way would be rock solid with you by my side,” he wrote via Facebook.

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor concluded his press conference on Monday with a message for Jay and his family.

“Jay, as you all know, is one of the best in this business,” Taylor, 42, stated. “Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family, and it pains me that he is going through this. We’re all here for him, and I just wanted to make sure he and his family know that.”

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Jay has also been supported by many colleagues across the National Football League.

Cincinnati Enquirer reporter Kelsey Conway expressed on X, “We are all heartbroken for you and your family. You and Nicki embody a wonderful couple. Sending prayers and strength to you during this incredibly challenging time. 🙏.”

“Nicki’s smile, laughter, and adventurous spirit made any room brighter,” Bengals radio announcer Dan Hoard remarked on X. “My heart goes out to you and your children.”

CBS Sports reporter Aditi Kinkhabwala conveyed via X, “My family and I are sending love, hugs, and our strongest hopes your way, Jay. May you and your children find strength in the cherished moments you all shared together. 💔.”