Tony Dungey Reflects on the Passing of Jim Irsay

Tony Dungey is feeling a deep sense of loss following the death of Jim Irsay.

The former head coach of the Indianapolis Colts shared his thoughts after Irsay passed away on Wednesday at 65. Dungey remembered his connection with the franchise’s longtime owner during a live football talk he attended on Thursday.

“I was really shaken when I heard the news last night,” Dungey stated. “Jim had invited me to speak to the rookies just two weeks ago, but my flight was delayed—about 30 minutes. I didn’t get to see him, and now I can’t believe that was my last chance.”

Dungey, who coached the Colts from 2002 to 2008, also took to social media to pay tribute to Irsay, noting the suddenness of his passing.

“When I got the news last night that Jim had passed away in his sleep, it hit hard. The Bible often reminds us that tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, but honestly, I wasn’t ready for this.”

“He was not just amazing to me and my family; he was a blessing to the players and staff. More importantly, he had such a big heart for the city of Indianapolis. He loved people and gave so much—more than you could even imagine. I already miss him. You couldn’t ask for a better owner.”

Dungey boasts a record of 112-85 over seven seasons with the Colts and led the team to its only Super Bowl victory during his time there in 2007, alongside quarterback Peyton Manning.

Manning also took a moment on Wednesday to honor Irsay after the news broke.

“I am heartbroken to hear about Jim Irsay’s passing,” Manning wrote on Instagram. “He was an incredibly generous and passionate owner, and I’ll always be thankful to him for giving me my start in the NFL.”

“I will never forget the impact he had on the players who were fortunate enough to play for him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and everyone in the Colts community. He won’t be forgotten. Jim, may you rest in peace, my friend.”