The ESPN family is grieving the loss of Zach Taylor, a dedicated research manager who passed away on Sunday at the age of 41 after a two-year battle with colorectal cancer. Taylor, who spent 15 years with the network, leaves behind his wife Amber and their 10-year-old son, Silas.
The heartbreaking news was announced during Monday’s edition of SportsCenter, with anchor Randy Scott delivering an emotional tribute to his late colleague. Fighting back tears, Scott honored Taylor’s memory and his significant contributions to the network.
A Beloved Member of the ESPN Family
“ESPN lost one of our own yesterday,” Scott began, addressing the audience. “Research manager Zach Taylor died Sunday after a two-year fight with colorectal cancer that had metastasized before his diagnosis.”
Scott explained that while viewers may not have seen Taylor on-screen, they undoubtedly felt the impact of his work. Taylor contributed to live golf coverage, women’s college basketball, and SportsCenter broadcasts.
“He came here in 2010 as a researcher and joined the management team of the stats and information group in 2018,” Scott said. “But more important than that… he got married here. He started a family here.”
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A Life Full of Love and Dedication
Taylor was a Stanford graduate who loved the Cardinal and had a deep passion for golf. Scott spoke fondly of Taylor’s devotion to his family, highlighting his wife Amber and their son Silas, who recently celebrated his 10th birthday.
Scott became visibly emotional as he recounted a recent encounter with Taylor in the ESPN cafeteria.
“I saw Zach just a couple of weeks ago. He was hopeful, and he was also reflective,” Scott said. “He told me he just wanted his family to be okay after a recent move to Texas. He fought like hell. He gets to rest now. We love you, buddy.”
Tributes from Colleagues
Scott wasn’t alone in mourning Taylor’s loss. Fellow SportsCenter anchor Kevin Negandhi paid tribute on social media, sharing a heartfelt post alongside a photo of Taylor and his family.
“May you rest in peace, Zach,” Negandhi wrote. “A devoted dad who loved golf, the Chargers, and his family. He was a fantastic researcher and had the perfect demeanor for TV. He will be missed by so many. Sending all of our love to his wife, son, and their family. F*ck cancer.”
A Legacy of Dedication and Resilience
Taylor’s passing just days before Christmas adds a layer of heartbreak to his family’s loss, particularly as it comes so soon after their recent move to Texas. Despite his illness, Taylor remained hopeful and committed to his work and family until the very end.
ESPN staffers, fans, and colleagues have continued to share their condolences, highlighting Taylor’s dedication, positive spirit, and the indelible mark he left on the network.
Remembering Zach Taylor
As ESPN and the wider sports community come to terms with the loss, Taylor’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the unseen individuals whose work elevates the industry. His passion for sports, family, and life will continue to inspire those who knew him.
“Zach Taylor wasn’t just a colleague,” Scott concluded during his tribute. “He was a friend, a father, and a husband who made an impact on everyone around him. We’ll carry his memory forward in everything we do.”
Taylor’s legacy will live on through his family, his work, and the countless lives he touched during his time at ESPN.
