Jim Irsay dead: Indianapolis Colts owner and CEO passes away after long NFL career

Entrepreneur and owner of club Jim Irsay has died aged 65.

The music mogul, who had been CEO of Indianapolis Colts since 1997, passed away in his sleep at home, the club announced. They praised the boss' "dedication and passion" for the game, with which he was involved for decades having been part of the set up at Baltimore Colts, which later became Indianapolis Colts.

Mr Irsay became the youngest team owner at 37 after his dad, Robert, died. The 258 wins are the fourth-most in the NFL over that timeframe, according to Pro Reference. In an emotional statement today, Indianapolis Colts said: "Jim's dedication and passion for the Indianapolis Colts in addition to his generosity, commitment to the community, and most importantly, his love for family were unsurpassed."

The business owner, born in Lincolnwood, Illinois, played linebacker in the early 1980s during his time at university but injury ended his pursuits of taking it further. However, alongside ventures in music investments, he worked his way up at Baltimore Colts and, at age 24, he was the youngest to ever hold the title of general manager in the NFL.

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And since he became Colts owner, the team has won 10 division titles, made the playoffs 18 times, appeared in two Super Bowls and won Super Bowl XLI. Indianapolis won 115 regular season games from 2000 to 2009, which is the second-most in a decade by any NFL team.

But in recent years, the father of three faced health problems and was found unresponsive at his property on December 8, 2023 in the Indiana city he'd made home. Mr Irsay had made a few public appearances in the year since then.

has not stated Mr Irsay's cause of death but, in the statement, they passed on their condolences to the man's family, including his daughters; Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson. Mr Irsay also leaves behind 10 grandchildren.

"Some of Jim's fondest memories came from his youth working training camps in Baltimore and growing relationships with players, coaches and staff whom he considered his extended family," the statement continued.

"He worked in every department before he was named the youngest general manager in team history in 1984 when the Colts arrived in Indianapolis. After he took sole ownership in 1997, he led the Colts to a long series of division titles and brought the city its first Super Bowl Championship. Jim's love and appreciation for the NFL in addition to its history, tradition and principles influenced him to become a steward of the game throughout his 50-plus years in the League."

Outside the sport, the star created The Jim Irsay Collection, a group of historic and culturally significant artifacts, which showcased rock music and how it had changed over several decades. It features instruments played by the likes of Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Prince, Eric Clapton, Sir Elton John. In 2022, his collection of guitars was highlighted as "The Greatest Guitar Collection on Earth" by Guitar Magazine. Its contents have been displayed in museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame over the years.

Indianapolis Colts' tweet announcing the owner's death has been shared more than 8,000 times. Former NFL player JJ Watt replied: "Terribly sorry to hear this news. Thoughts are with the Irsay family and the entirely Indianapolis community." Eddie White, a sports presenter in the US, posted: "Known this man since 1989. He became a trusted friend. My sincere thoughts to the Irsay family & the @Colts family. He had a heart of gold! He was loyal and true. Battled the demons along life's roads. RIP big guy. Hit 'em straight up there."

Another tribute reads: "Heartbroken to hear of Mr Irsay’s passing. No one loved the Colts, the city of Indianapolis or its fans than him. We will miss him greatly in the Circle City. He deserves a statue outside the stadium to honor his memory and belongs in the ring of honor next to the players."