Jim Irsay Dies at 65: A Visionary NFL Owner, Philanthropist, and Music Enthusiast

 

May 21, 2025 – Indianapolis, IN

The sports world is mourning the loss of one of the NFL’s most iconic and passionate owners. Jim Irsay, longtime owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 65. His death was confirmed by the team in an official statement, though no specific cause was given.

Born on June 13, 1959, Jim Irsay grew up surrounded by the world of football. His father, Robert Irsay, purchased the Baltimore Colts in 1972, laying the foundation for Jim’s future in the NFL. At just 24, he became the league’s youngest general manager in 1984. Following his father’s death in 1997, Jim officially took over the reins and began shaping the Colts into a premier franchise.

Under Irsay’s leadership, the Colts saw a golden era with the drafting of quarterback Peyton Manning in 1998. The team would go on to win Super Bowl XLI in 2007, a moment that cemented Irsay’s place in football history.

Irsay wasn’t just a football executive — he was a visionary. He was instrumental in the creation of Lucas Oil Stadium, now one of the NFL’s top venues. His investment in players, facilities, and the fan experience helped elevate the Colts to consistent playoff contenders and earned him the respect of team owners and players across the league.

Outside of football, Jim Irsay was a man of eclectic passions. He was a renowned collector of music memorabilia, owning guitars and items that once belonged to icons like Jerry Garcia, John Lennon, and Kurt Cobain. He toured the country with his personal collection and even formed the Jim Irsay Band, blending his love for music with community outreach.

In recent years, Irsay became an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness and addiction recovery. Through his “Kicking The Stigma” initiative, he donated millions of dollars to organizations fighting mental health issues and worked to destigmatize seeking help.

Jim Irsay’s life wasn’t without hardship. He battled personal demons, including addiction and public legal troubles, but used those experiences to inspire others. After a near-fatal overdose in 2023, he became even more determined to help people suffering from similar issues.

His transparency about his struggles and determination to give back earned him admiration not just in sports, but across the nation.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell called Irsay “a devoted leader and friend” whose legacy would live on. Peyton Manning, with whom Irsay shared a deep bond, said in a statement, “Jim was more than an owner—he was family. His heart, generosity, and loyalty were unmatched.”

Irsay’s final tweet, just days before his death, was in support of the Indiana Pacers, a symbol of his unwavering love for his home state and its people.

Jim Irsay is survived by his three daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—all of whom have played active roles in the Colts organization. They are expected to carry on his vision and maintain the team’s strong connection with its community and fans.

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Jim Irsay was far more than an NFL team owner. He was a father, leader, philanthropist, music lover, and mental health advocate. His life was a tapestry of success, struggle, and service. Though he has left this world, the legacy he built—with love, passion, and bold vision—will forever echo through the halls of Lucas Oil Stadium and beyond.

Rest in peace, Jim Irsay. You will be deeply missed.