Jim Irsay, longtime owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday at the age of 65, according to a statement from the team. A pillar of the NFL community for over five decades, Irsay was known for his passion for football, unwavering commitment to his team, and generosity toward the Indianapolis community. He took over the Colts after his father’s death in 1997 and led the team through its most successful era, including a Super Bowl victory in 2006, largely credited to his drafting of quarterback Peyton Manning.
Irsay’s life was deeply intertwined with football from a young age. He began working with the Colts as a ball boy and rose through the ranks, becoming the youngest general manager in team history when the franchise relocated from Baltimore to Indianapolis in 1984. Beyond football, he was an avid collector of music memorabilia, historic manuscripts, and cultural artifacts. Despite personal struggles with addiction, which he openly discussed, Irsay remained a respected and influential figure in both the sports and arts worlds.
Throughout his tenure, Irsay was admired for his loyalty to players and fans alike. From investing millions to preserve his father’s legacy and keep the Colts in the family, to gifting Super Bowl rings to former players like Edgerrin James, Irsay exemplified heartfelt leadership. He leaves behind a powerful legacy not only as a football owner but as a man who wore his heart on his sleeve and made a lasting impact on and off the field.
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