Jim Irsay, owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts, passes away at 65
INDIANAPOLIS — Jim Irsay, the longtime owner of the Indianapolis Colts who guided the franchise through one of its most successful eras, passed away Wednesday at age 65.
Colts Chief Operating Officer Pete Ward expressed the team’s sorrow, saying, “We are devastated to announce that our beloved Owner and CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon. Jim’s dedication to the Colts, his generosity, commitment to the community, and above all, his love for his family were unmatched.”
Irsay is survived by his three daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—his ex-wife Meg Coyle, and 10 grandchildren. Carlie, his eldest daughter, has been notably involved in team operations, stepping in during Irsay’s 2014 NFL suspension.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also paid tribute: “Jim was a friend and a man deeply devoted to his family, the game, the Colts, and Indianapolis. He led with integrity and passion, and his advocacy for mental health leaves a lasting legacy. On behalf of the NFL, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”
Irsay’s health had been a concern since a December 2023 incident in which first responders found him unresponsive, later described as a suspected overdose. Following weeks of limited public appearances, the Colts revealed in early 2024 that he was recovering from a severe respiratory illness. He had recently expressed support for the Indiana Pacers ahead of their Eastern Conference finals series.
Peyton Manning, Colts legend and Hall of Fame quarterback, shared his grief: “I am heartbroken to hear about Jim’s passing. He was an incredibly generous and passionate owner who gave me my start in the NFL. His love for the Colts and Indianapolis was unmatched, and his impact on players will not be forgotten.”
Irsay assumed ownership of the Colts at age 37 after his father, Bob Irsay, passed away and following a legal battle with his stepmother. At the time, he was the youngest NFL owner and grew into one of its most influential voices. He served on key league committees, including those shaping the salary cap.
Known for his eccentric personality, Irsay was a beloved figure among fans, often engaging directly through social media, handing out money and prizes, and performing with his own band. Unlike many owners with diverse business interests, his loyalty remained firmly with the Colts.
Under his leadership, the Colts became one of the NFL’s winningest teams, capturing Super Bowl XLI in the 2006 season—a crowning achievement symbolized by a memorable photo of Irsay holding the Lombardi Trophy in the rain.
Irsay faced challenges, including tough decisions such as releasing Peyton Manning in 2012 due to injury concerns and salary cap issues, paving the way for drafting Andrew Luck. Though the team fell short of additional championships, Irsay never stopped dreaming big.
Beyond football, Irsay was a passionate collector, curating the renowned Jim Irsay Collection, which includes Muhammad Ali’s championship belt and a vast array of classic guitars. He valued deeply the "Big Book," the Alcoholics Anonymous manuscript, reflecting his own long battle with addiction.
He openly discussed his struggles, including multiple rehab stays and a 2014 DWI arrest. This personal journey inspired his leadership in the “Kicking the Stigma” mental health and addiction awareness campaign, which has distributed over $31 million in grants.
Ownership of the Colts is expected to transition to his daughters, who have held stakes and active roles in the franchise for years. Irsay’s commitment to keeping the team in the family was clear: “We’re keeping 100 percent of the team, and I’m passing it on to my children.”