Indianapolis Colts’ owner Jim Irsay passed away Wednesday afternoon, the team announced at 7:35 PM on X. He was 65.
“We are devastated to announce our beloved Owner & CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon,” the post read. “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.”
Jim Irsay inherited ownership of the Colts’ after the passing of his father in 1997, and has led the team since. He brought Indianapolis their first Super Bowl Championship in 2007.
“Simply put, he wanted to make the world a better place and that philosophy never wavered,” the post concluded. “Jim will be deeply missed by his family, the Colts organization, and fans everywhere, but we remain inspired by his caring unique spirit.”
Irsay wrote on X just this morning, posting at 11:58 AM wishing luck to his neighbors in the Eastern Conference Finals.
“Go PACERS. Good luck to Herb, the entire @Pacersorganization, and our city!” the post read.
No Cause of death has been reported at this time.
The NFL World Reacts To The News
Irsay was a legend around the National Football League, with several prominent figures coming forward to post their condolences.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jim Irsay,” Patriots owner Robert Kraft’s statement read. “Jim was a passionate Colts fan whose love for the game of football was only matched by his love for music. He brought a unique spirit and energy into the room and has an unmistakable presence.”
“#Colts owner Jim Irsay was a legend, a truly unique and endearing man. as an owner, he had many significant contributions to his team and the NFL,” read a post from the NFL’s lead insider Ian Rapoport. “For me personally, this was his biggest. The first to publicly call for dan Snyder’s removal while many others were quiet.”
NFL Commissioner Rodger Goodell issues a particularly heart felt statement on the passing of his friend and colleague.
“Within the league, Jim was an active Chairman of the Legislative Committee and member of the Finance Committee,” the statement reads. “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…
From ballboy to G.M. to owner, Irsay devoted 50 years to his team and the NFL. Unlike many other team owners, the Colts were his primary business — and he was fully and completely committed to it.”
Jim Irsay’s Career With The Colts
Jim Irsay was the living embodiment of the Indianapolis Colts. At 24-years-old, Irsay became the youngest general manager in franchise history. At 37, he became the team’s sole owner.
One of his first acts as owner, after taking over in 1997, was to draft Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning in 1998.
“During his time with the organization, the Colts won 10 division championships, made two Super Bowl appearances and oversaw the team winning their fourth title in 2006, when Indianapolis defeated the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI,” CNN’s Jacob Lev wrote.
When he took over the team, Forbes reported the franchise was worth roughly $125 million. At the time of passing, the franchise is worth more than $4.8 billion. A four hundred thousand percent increase.
Colts Announce Death Of Owner Jim Irsay At 65