The National Football League (NFL) and the Indianapolis Colts community are mourning the loss of Jim Irsay, the longtime owner and CEO of the Colts, who passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 21, 2025, at the age of 65.
Jim Irsay, the influential and often outspoken owner of the Indianapolis Colts, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday at the age of 65. Irsay, who led the Colts through one of the most successful eras in franchise history, is being remembered not only for his business acumen but also for his deep love of the game, philanthropy, and commitment to his family.
The news of his passing was shared by Colts Chief Operating Officer Pete Ward, Irsay’s trusted confidant for decades.
“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 in a heartfelt statement. “Our deepest sympathies go to his daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, Kalen Jackson, and his entire family as we grieve with them.”
Taking over ownership of the Colts after the passing of his father, Robert Irsay, in 1997, Jim Irsay was instrumental in turning the team into a perennial contender. His bold decision-making and support for legendary quarterback Peyton Manning helped the franchise win Super Bowl XLI in 2007. He also played a key role in bringing Lucas Oil Stadium to life—an iconic NFL venue that became a cornerstone of downtown Indianapolis.
Beyond football, Irsay was known for his extensive philanthropic efforts, including support for mental health awareness, addiction recovery, and arts and music initiatives. His open and honest discussions about his own personal struggles with addiction broke barriers and helped remove stigma around mental health issues in the sports world.
Under his leadership, the Colts became not only a strong franchise but also a family-oriented organization rooted in community values—something he passed on to his daughters, who have each taken active roles within the team.
Jim Irsay officially took the reins of the Indianapolis Colts in 1997, stepping into ownership at the age of 37 following the passing of his father, Robert Irsay. But his journey with the franchise began long before that—as far back as 1984—when he joined the team’s front office while his father was still in control. It was a family affair from the start, one that would shape not just Jim’s life, but the entire trajectory of the Colts franchise.
Robert Irsay had acquired the Colts in 1972 in a landmark deal that essentially traded his stake in the Los Angeles Rams. That same year, in a move that still echoes across the NFL, he relocated the team from Baltimore to Indianapolis. Young Jim was already closely observing the business, gaining insight into the sport and operations from behind the scenes—experience that would serve him well decades later.
Under Jim Irsay’s leadership, the Colts entered one of the most successful eras in their history. The highlight came during the 2006 season, when a star-studded lineup led by quarterback Peyton Manning and head coach Tony Dungy captured the franchise’s first Super Bowl title since 1970, defeating the Chicago Bears in a historic victory. Just three years later, the team made a return trip to the big game, ultimately falling short to the New Orleans Saints in Super Bowl XLIV.
Beyond the field, Irsay’s vision for the future of the franchise was clear. In 2008, he oversaw the team’s move into Lucas Oil Stadium—an architectural marvel that quickly became a major venue on the national stage. Under his guidance, the stadium grew beyond football, hosting everything from Super Bowls and Final Fours to the annual NFL Scouting Combine and the Big Ten football championship.
Jim Irsay faced lifelong struggles with drug and alcohol addiction, a battle he was remarkably candid about. In 2014, following an arrest for driving under the influence and drug possession, he entered a rehabilitation facility—one of at least 15 rehab stints over the course of his life. In a 2023 revelation, Irsay shared that he had once suffered an overdose so severe it stopped his breathing and nearly cost him his life. Later that same year, in December, he was found unresponsive at his home in what was reported as a suspected overdose.
The Colts disclosed in January 2024 that Jim Irsay had been battling a “severe respiratory illness.” He had not made any public appearances for several weeks leading up to the announcement.
Despite his health challenges, Irsay and his family remained committed to philanthropic efforts, contributing over $25 million in recent years to support mental health and addiction initiatives.
A passionate collector, Irsay amassed a treasure trove of rare memorabilia, including a piano once owned by Elton John, iconic guitars, and a championship belt belonging to Muhammad Ali. His collection, which grew to over 500 prized items, was so coveted that a bidder from the Middle East reportedly offered more than $1 billion for it—a proposal Irsay turned down, according to an interview with ESPN.
In addition to his collecting pursuits, Irsay was an enthusiastic musician. He led his own group, the “Jim Irsay Band,” and performed regularly.
His devotion to the Colts and the broader Indianapolis sports community never faded. Just hours before his passing, Irsay shared a social media post celebrating the Indiana Pacers’ dramatic win over the New York Knicks in the opening game of the Eastern Conference finals.
Irsay is survived by his three daughters, his ex-wife and mother of his children, Meg Coyle, and 10 grandchildren.
Irsay said he planned to pass the team onto his children after his death, and all three of them were given an ownership title in 2012. They have held active roles in the organization, though Irsay’s specific succession plan is not publicly known.
How Much was Jim Irsay Worth?
After years of leading one of the NFL’s most valuable franchises, spending millions at auctions, and maintaining an active philanthropic presence, Jim Irsay’s wealth is as remarkable as the sources from which it derives.
Jim Irsay’s net worth is estimated to exceed $5.8 billion.
Former Colts speak out after Jim Irsay’s death
In the wake of Jim Irsay’s passing, tributes poured in across social media from those who knew him best. Former Colts greats — including Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, and T.Y. Hilton — shared heartfelt messages honoring Irsay’s legacy and his deep impact on their lives and careers. Others connected to the Colts organization also spoke out, reflecting on his passion for the team, his generosity, and his unwavering support for players both on and off the field.
This hurts my soul…. https://t.co/wpK1fPD3jW
— Reggie Wayne (@ReggieWayne_17) May 21, 2025
Please don’t ask me if I’m ok. Cuz I’m not. Thank You Sooo Much Mr.Irsay. I will forever hold our talks close to my heart. Love You! RIP Mr.Irsay 🥹🥹🥹🥹😢😢 pic.twitter.com/EeOh5lmec5
— TY Hilton (@TYHilton13) May 22, 2025