Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has passed away, the team announced on Wednesday.
He was 65 years old.
The Colts announced on Wednesday that the longtime owner of the team died in his sleep. He died “peacefully” in his sleep at home.
Irsay had several health issues over the years, and battled drug and alcohol addiction, recently being treated for an overdose.
The team released the following statement:
“We are devastated to announce our beloved Owner & CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon,” it began.
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. Our deepest sympathies go to his daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, Kalen Jackson, and his entire family as we grieve with them.
Some of Jim’s fondest memories came from his youth working training camps in Baltimore and growing relationships with players, coaches, and staff whom he considered his extended family. He worked in every department before he was named the youngest general manager in team history in 1984 when the Colts arrived in Indianapolis. After he took sole ownership in 1997, he led the Colts to a long series of division titles and brought the city its first Super Bowl Championship. Jim’s love and appreciation for the NFL in addition to its history, tradition, and principles influenced him to become a steward of the game throughout his 50-plus years in the League.
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.”
Irsay’s father purchased the team in 1972 when they still played in Baltimore for $12 million and moved the team in 1984. Irsay had been the general manager of the team from 1982 to 1996.
Jim Irsay Changed The Colts Around
Jim Irsay took sole ownership of the Colts in 1997.
With Irsay at the helm, the Colts claimed several division titles and won a Super Bowl in 2007.
After drafting Peyton Manning, he would go on to 14 Pro Bowls and was a five-time NFL Most Valuable Player and two-time Super Bowl winner.
Things were certainly looking up for Irsay and the Colts with Andrew Luck at the helm, but he would retire early.
