Indianapolis Colts owner and CEO Jim Irsay, one of the most colorful and influential figures in NFL history, has died at the age of 65. The longtime franchise leader, who took the reins of the team in 1997, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 21, 2025. His sudden death has shocked the NFL community, Colts fans, and admirers across the United States.
Irsay wasn’t just a football executive—he was a culture icon, a mental health advocate, a music lover, and a man who wore his heart on his sleeve. Over the years, he turned the Colts into a Super Bowl-winning team and earned the respect of players, coaches, and fans alike. Let’s dive into the legacy, leadership, and impact of one of the NFL’s most unique voices.
Jim Irsay’s Life and Legacy
| Key Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James Irsay |
| Date of Death | May 21, 2025 |
| Age | 65 |
| Cause of Death | Passed peacefully in his sleep |
| Position | Owner & CEO, Indianapolis Colts |
| Years as Owner | 1997–2025 |
| Major Achievements | Super Bowl XLI win, mental health advocacy, “Kicking The Stigma” campaign |
| Survived By | Daughters Carlie, Casey, and Kalen |
Jim Irsay was more than just a sports team owner—he was a visionary, a fighter, and a friend to those struggling silently. Whether it was backing Super Bowl champions or breaking the silence around mental illness, he left a mark that’s impossible to forget.
As Colts fans chant “Go Blue” this fall, they’ll know the man who built the house still lives in every heartbeat of Lucas Oil Stadium. Rest in power, Jim Irsay.
Who Was Jim Irsay? A Football Owner With a Rockstar’s Soul
Born in 1959, Jim Irsay inherited the Colts franchise from his father, Robert Irsay, who relocated the team from Baltimore to Indianapolis in 1984. At just 37 years old, Jim became one of the youngest team owners in the NFL, and he quickly made his presence known.
Irsay had an eccentric and free-spirited personality—he wasn’t the suit-and-tie type. Instead, he was more likely to be spotted quoting Bob Dylan lyrics or jamming with his band than doing press conferences. Yet, he was all business when it came to his team.
In 1998, he made a career-defining decision: drafting quarterback Peyton Manning as the No. 1 overall pick. That move kicked off a new era for the Colts, leading to a Super Bowl win in 2007 (Super Bowl XLI) and making the franchise a powerhouse during the 2000s.
A Champion for Mental Health
While Irsay’s love for football was well-known, his deep commitment to mental health awareness became his defining cause off the field. In 2020, he and his daughters launched the “Kicking The Stigma” initiative, pledging more than $25 million to combat the stigma around mental illness.
“Mental health is just as important as physical health,” Irsay often said, “and it’s time we treated it that way.”
This wasn’t just talk. Irsay spoke openly about his personal battles with addiction and mental illness. His willingness to be vulnerable helped millions of Americans feel seen, heard, and supported. His daughters are expected to continue this legacy in his honor.
His Love for Music and the “Jim Irsay Collection”
Few NFL owners could say they’ve performed onstage with Stephen Stills or bought a guitar owned by Kurt Cobain. But Irsay could. He had one of the world’s most valuable music memorabilia collections, including instruments from the Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Prince.
He also funded and led the Jim Irsay Band, which performed free concerts across America. Through these shows, he spread messages of hope, healing, and recovery—often performing in cities most affected by opioid addiction.
His collection has been displayed in pop-up museums and cultural exhibits, serving as a unique mix of rock ‘n’ roll history and philanthropy.
A Leader in the NFL and a Family Legacy
Jim Irsay wasn’t just a franchise owner; he was a vocal figure in NFL policy and ownership debates. He stood up for player rights, mental health awareness, and diversity. He was known for supporting minority coaching hires and pushing the NFL to evolve socially.
Irsay is survived by his three daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—all of whom have been involved in the Colts’ operations for over a decade. He had publicly stated his wish for the team to remain in the family, and many insiders expect the sisters to carry on his legacy.
The NFL Reacts: Outpouring of Tributes
The news of Irsay’s death sent shockwaves through the sports world. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell called him “a true steward of the game, whose contributions off the field were just as impactful as his leadership on it.”
Peyton Manning, the quarterback Irsay drafted and supported throughout his career, said he was “heartbroken,” noting that Jim wasn’t just a boss, but “a brother in arms.”
Tony Dungy, former Colts head coach, said Irsay was the “most compassionate team owner he ever worked with.”
Social media was flooded with posts from fans, players, and fellow owners remembering his generosity, creativity, and grit.
A Look Back at Major Milestones in Jim Irsay’s Career
1997 – Became full owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts.
1998 – Drafted Peyton Manning, changing the franchise’s future.
2006 Season – Won Super Bowl XLI with head coach Tony Dungy.
2020 – Launched “Kicking The Stigma” campaign.
2023 – Donated Cobain’s guitar worth $6 million to charity exhibition.
2025 – Passed away, leaving behind a legacy of passion, purpose, and impact.
What Happens to the Colts Now?
With Jim Irsay gone, fans are wondering what’s next for the Colts. Luckily, the Irsay daughters have already been deeply involved in day-to-day management, so no major disruption is expected.
Carlie Irsay-Gordon has been acting as Vice Chair and Owner, regularly attending NFL meetings and representing the franchise. She is likely to step into her father’s role more formally, backed by her sisters and a loyal front-office team.
For Colts fans, there’s comfort in knowing that the blue-and-white torch will remain in the family.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Jim Irsay?
Jim Irsay was the longtime owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts, known for his leadership in the NFL, his passion for mental health advocacy, and his love for music.
How did Jim Irsay die?
He passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 21, 2025, at the age of 65.
What was “Kicking The Stigma”?
It’s a mental health initiative started by the Irsay family to raise awareness and fund treatment and recovery programs across the U.S.
Who will run the Colts now?
Jim’s daughters—Carlie, Casey, and Kalen—are expected to continue managing the team.
