Colts owner Jim Irsay dies at 65

Indianapolis Colts owner and CEO Jim Irsay died in his sleep Wednesday afternoon at age 65, the team announced.

"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," the Colts wrote in a statement.

"Jim's generosity can be felt all over Indianapolis, the state of Indiana, and the country. He made philanthropy a daily endeavor. He never hesitated to help countless organizations and individuals live better lives. Music was one of Jim's passions, and the ability to share his band and collection with millions of people across the world brought him tremendous joy.

"Simply put, he wanted to make the world a better place, and that philosophy never wavered. Jim will be deeply missed by his family, the Colts organization, and fans everywhere, but we remain inspired by his caring and unique spirit."

In 1984, at age 24, Irsay became the youngest general manager in NFL history when he took on the role for the Colts, then owned by his father, Robert. He assumed control of the franchise's day-to-day operations in 1995 after his father suffered a stroke and inherited sole ownership of the club in 1997 following his father's passing.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell described Irsay as a "friend, and a man deeply committed to his family, the game, the Colts, and the Indianapolis community."

"Within the league, Jim was an active chairman of the legislative committee and member of the finance committee," he said in a statement. "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."

Irsay battled addiction issues throughout his life and started "Kicking The Stigma," an initiative to raise awareness around mental health, in 2020.

The 65-year-old also had other health issues in recent years. He was treated for a severe respiratory illness in January 2024. He also underwent leg surgery in 2024, noting that it was one of 26 surgeries he'd had in the seven years prior.

Ownership of the team is expected to be transferred to Irsay's three daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson, according to ESPN's Stephen Holder.

Under Irsay's ownership, Indianapolis reached the Super Bowl twice, winning once, and made 16 playoff appearances.

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