Indianapolis Colts’ Music-Loving Owner Jim Irsay Dies at Age 65
Introduction to Jim Irsay’s Life and Career
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Jim Irsay started his football career as a ball boy. He finished it as a team owner.
The Making of a Unique Brand
Along the way, the NFL’s music man created his own, unique brand. Irsay worked his way up through the organization, learning how to run a football team, restoring the Colts’ once-proud tradition to glory and created what some have dubbed the greatest guitar collection on Earth — all while battling health issues and addictions to alcohol and painkillers.
The End of an Era
On Wednesday, Irsay’s remarkable journey ended at age 65. Pete Ward, Irsay’s longtime right-hand man, made the announcement in a statement, saying Irsay died peacefully in his sleep.
Tributes and Reflections
“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,” Ward said. “Our deepest sympathies go to his daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, Kalen Jackson and his entire family as we grieve with them.”
Impact on the Franchise
Irsay had a profound impact on the franchise. With the help of Hall of Fame general manager Bill Polian, Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy and Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning, Irsay turned the Colts from a longtime laughingstock into a perennial title contender, even winning a Super Bowl title.
A Legacy of Success
He then used that success — and Manning’s aura — to help convince city leaders to build a retractable roof dome stadium that opened in 2008 and eventually allowed Indy to host a Super Bowl. “I am heartbroken to hear about Jim Irsay’s passing,” Manning said on social media. “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.”
Health Issues and Later Life
More recently, though, Irsay battled health issues and became far less visible following a fall at his home Dec. 8, 2023. Police officers from Carmel, Indiana, a northern suburb of Indy, responded to a 911 call from Irsay’s home. According to the police report, the officers found Irsay breathing but unresponsive and with a bluish skin tone. A month later, Irsay was diagnosed with a respiratory illness.
A Life of Passion and Struggle
But his story is one of a kind. As a teenager, he tossed footballs with MVP quarterbacks Johnny Unitas and Bert Jones. He relied frequently on the lessons he learned from rubbing elbows with some of the game’s most important owners — Al Davis, Lamar Hunt, Wellington Mara and Art Rooney — as they worked through the 1982 players’ strike and the implementation of a salary cap. And he presided over the greatest quarter-century of Colts football thanks to Manning and quarterback Andrew Luck.
Music, Collectibles, and Personal Struggles
Irsay also had a profound love for music and collectibles. His ever-expanding musical collection included instruments and items from The Beatles, James Brown, Prince, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, Elton John, Johnny Cash and Jerry Garcia; signed Presidential documents; an original “wanted” poster for John Wilkes Booth; a 1953 Jackie Robinson bat; Muhammad Ali’s title belt from the 1974 “Rumble in the Jungle;” even the saddle from Secretariat’s triple crown wins. However, he also struggled with addiction and personal issues, including a highly publicized arrest and suspension from the NFL.
Conclusion
Jim Irsay’s legacy is complex and multifaceted, reflecting a life of passion, struggle, and dedication to both football and the arts. His impact on the Indianapolis Colts and the city of Indianapolis will be remembered for generations to come.
FAQs
Who was Jim Irsay?
Jim Irsay was the owner of the Indianapolis Colts, a team in the National Football League (NFL). He was known for his love of football, music, and collectibles.
How did Jim Irsay die?
Jim Irsay died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 65.
What was Jim Irsay’s impact on the Indianapolis Colts?
Irsay had a profound impact on the franchise, turning the Colts into a perennial title contender and winning a Super Bowl title. He also helped convince city leaders to build a retractable roof dome stadium.
What were some of Jim Irsay’s notable collectibles?
Some of Irsay’s notable collectibles included instruments and items from famous musicians, signed Presidential documents, and historic sports memorabilia.
Did Jim Irsay struggle with personal issues?
Yes, Irsay struggled with addiction and personal issues, including a highly publicized arrest and suspension from the NFL.
