Indianapolis Colts Owner Jim Irsay Dead: Peyton Manning Breaks Silence
Peyton Manning, the legendary quarterback, has paid a heartfelt tribute to Jim Irsay, the owner of the Indianapolis Colts, who passed away on Wednesday. According to a report by the Daily Mail, Irsay died in his sleep on Wednesday afternoon, leaving behind a legacy as a passionate and generous owner of the Colts.
In a poignant Instagram post, Manning expressed his shock and sadness at the news of Irsay’s passing. "I am heartbroken to hear about Jim Irsay’s passing," Manning wrote. "He was an incredibly generous and passionate owner and I will always be indebted to him for giving me my start in the NFL. His love for the Colts and the city of Indy was unmatched. His impact on the players who played for him will not be forgotten." The Daily Mail reports that Irsay was instrumental in the Colts’ Super Bowl victory in 2007, with Manning as quarterback.
The Colts organization also released a statement, expressing their deepest sympathies to Irsay’s family. "We are devastated to announce our beloved Owner & CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon," the statement 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." The Daily Mail notes that Irsay’s philanthropic efforts had a significant impact on the city of Indianapolis and beyond.
Irsay’s life was not without controversy, however. The Daily Mail reports that he battled addiction problems and personal demons, and was arrested in 2014 for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Despite these challenges, Irsay remained a prominent figure in the NFL and a beloved owner of the Colts.
In recent years, Irsay had become less visible due to health issues. In December 2023, he suffered a fall at his home, which left him with a respiratory illness. According to the Daily Mail, Irsay’s daughter, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, is expected to assume principal ownership duties of the Colts.
The NFL community has come together to pay tribute to Irsay, with Tom Brady, among others, expressing their condolences. As the news of Irsay’s passing spreads, the Daily Mail reports that fans and fellow owners are mourning the loss of a passionate and dedicated owner who left an indelible mark on the sport.
