Jim Irsaythe long-time owner of the Indianapolis Colts, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 65.
He was the owner, chairman and CEO of the Colts since taking charge in 1997 and presided over the most successful period in the team’s historyleading them to the famous Super Bowl XLI triumph.
“We are devastated to announce our beloved Owner & CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon,” Colts chief operating officer Pete Ward wrote in a statement. “Jim’s dedication and passion for the Indianapolis Colts in addition to his generosity, commitment to the community, and most importantly, his love for his family were unsurpassed.”
In the past 18 months Irsay’s health had been scrutinized following a hospitalization in December 2023. He was reportedly found unresponsive in his bedroom and police characterized the incident as a suspected overdose.
As health issues have continued to plague his life he has been a much less regular presence at NFL and team events. Irsay did not attend the league’s latest annual meeting in Palm Beach, Florida earlier this year. He is also not thought to have attended the 2025 NFL Draft.
When Irsay took control of the Colts after the death of his father he was just 37 years old. At the time, that made him the youngest-ever NFL owner. He would grow into the role quickly and become one of the league’s most influential and most respected owners, taking prominent positions on both the NFL’s finance committee and legislative committee.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement paying tribute to Irsay: “We were deeply saddened to learn of Jim Irsay’s passing today. Jim was a friend, and a man deeply committed to his family, the game, the Colts, and the Indianapolis community.”
“He led with integrity, passion and care for the Colts’ players, coaches and staff, and his courageous work in support of mental health will be a lasting legacy. … On behalf of the entire NFL, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Jim’s daughters and their families, and to his many friends throughout the NFL.”
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