Jim Irsay, Longtime Colts Owner, Dies at 65

The Indianapolis Colts announced on Wednesday that Jim Irsay, the team’s longtime owner, has passed away at the age of 65.

The franchise was originally bought for $12 million in 1972 by Irsay’s father. At that time, they were the Baltimore Colts, but the team relocated to Indianapolis in 1984.

Jim Irsay served as the general manager of the Colts from 1982 to 1996, and at 37, he became the youngest owner in NFL history when he took over in 1997 following his father’s death.

Throughout his life, Irsay faced numerous health challenges, notably battling alcohol and drug addiction, which led him to rehabilitation “at least 15 times.” In January 2024, the Colts revealed that he was receiving treatment for a “severe respiratory illness.” By February, he updated his fans that his condition was “in repair.”

In March, Irsay was hospitalized after undergoing a procedure on his right leg. He had already undergone a total of “26 surgeries” in the past seven years.

During his tenure with the Colts, Irsay achieved 258 wins, celebrated 10 division championships, and participated in two Super Bowls with a 1-1 record, plus 18 appearances in postseason play.

He is survived by three children and ten grandchildren.