Indianapolis Colts Owner Jim Irsay Dies at 65: Health Struggles and Legacy Remembered

Longtime Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay died at sixty-five. Although the official cause of death is still unknown, his past of health problems and addiction is noted. The NFL community respects his significant legacy.

Jim Irsay, Dies at 65 Owner of Indianapolis Colts

At the age of 65, Jim Irsay, the Indianapolis Colts’ owner and CEO, passed away quietly in his sleep on May 21, 2025. The team emphasized his relentless loyalty to the Colts, his charitable activities, and his great love for his family.

Cause of Death and Health History

Although the official cause of death is unknown, Irsay’s health issues were extensively reported. Key points include:

• Discovered unconscious at home in December 2023, showing symptoms of an opioid overdose.
• Hospitalized after emergency responders administered Narcan, a medication for opioid overdoses.
• Colts later described the episode as a “severe respiratory illness,” linked to complications from a leg injury.

Openly sharing his struggles with addiction, Irsay admitted to several rehabilitation trips and a past near-fatal overdose. He began advocating for mental health awareness after crediting Alcoholics Anonymous for his recovery.

NFL Career and Contributions

Irsay spent over five decades with the Colts. Highlights of his career include:

• Started as a ball boy after his father purchased the team in 1972.
• Became the NFL’s youngest general manager in 1984 at age 24.
• Took full ownership in 1997, leading the Colts to notable success, including a Super Bowl XLI victory in 2006.

Outside of football, Irsay was known for his love of music and charity. He was acclaimed for his collection of musical instruments and cultural relics, and he supported community development projects and mental health campaigns.

Honor and Legacy

The news of Irsay’s death prompted numerous tributes from the sports world. Notable mentions include:

• Former Colts quarterback Peyton Manning expressed heartbreak, praising Irsay’s generosity and impact.
• NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell lauded Irsay as a devoted friend and leader with lasting contributions.

Irsay is survived by his three daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—who are expected to continue his legacy. His death marks the end of an era for the Colts and leaves a lasting impact on the NFL and the broader community.

Irsay’s Contributions

Outside of football, Irsay was well-known for his love of music and charity. He was acclaimed for his collection of musical instruments and cultural relics. Additionally, he supported:

• Community development projects
• Mental health campaigns

Honor and Legacy

The news of Irsay’s death set off a tsunami of sports world tributes. Notable mentions include:

• Former Colts quarterback Peyton Manning expressed heartbreak, praising Irsay’s generosity and transformative impact on the team and community.
• NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell lauded Irsay as a devoted friend and leader with lasting contributions to football and society.

Irsay is survived by his three daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—who have been active in team operations and are expected to continue his legacy. His death marks the end of an era for the Colts and leaves a lasting impact on the NFL and the broader community.