Jim Irsay was the longtime owner of the Indianapolis Colts football team. He was a vibrant person in the world of sports. Beyond the world of football, he had a great love for music and gathered an impressive collection of memorabilia. Jim was also known for being very open about his personal struggles, showing a vulnerable side. His life combined big professional wins, a deep cultural passion, and a very human openness about his difficulties. He passed away when he was 65 years old.
Jim Irsay was most popular for being the owner of the famous football team, ‘Indianapolis Colts Football Team’.
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) May 21, 2025
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Early Life
Jim Irsay was born on June 13, 1959, into a football family. His father, Robert Irsay, bought the Baltimore Colts in 1972. Jim officially joined the team’s leadership early on, taking over as general manager when the team relocated to Indianapolis in 1984. After his father died in 1997, Jim became the sole owner.
Net Worth
According to Forbes, at the time of his death, Irsay's estimated net worth was around $4.8 billion, primarily from the Colts franchise, which itself was valued at over $4 billion. Outside of football, Irsay put money into real estate. He also built a unique and famous collection of music memorabilia. This included guitars owned by music icons like Prince and John Lennon. He often showed these items to the public, blending his passion for music with his love for history.
Personal Struggles and Health
Even with all his professional success, Jim Irsay faced tough personal battles throughout his life. He was very open about his struggles with addiction and mental health. In late 2023, he was even hospitalized after what was thought to be an overdose, which made many people worry about him. He went to rehab many times and often talked openly about how important it is to get help for mental health and addiction. He truly believed in facing these problems directly.
Even with his struggles, Irsay stayed an active person in the NFL. He was also a kind philanthropist, often giving money to help causes related to mental health and recovery.
Jim Irsay’s Career
Jim Irsay's journey in football was all about the Indianapolis Colts. He helped turn them into a team that could win championships. He actually started his career in the NFL working for his dad, Robert Irsay, who bought the Baltimore Colts in 1972. Jim joined the team's leadership when he was young and quickly learned how to run things.
Executive Vice President
In 1984, the team fell into controversy and was relocated from Baltimore to Indianapolis. Jim Irsay became the general manager and executive vice president. After his father died in 1997, he became one of the youngest owners in the league at the time. He assumed full ownership and control of the franchise. Irsay's most defining career move came in 1998, when the Colts drafted quarterback Peyton Manning. Under Irsay’s leadership and vision, the team entered a golden era, reaching the playoffs consistently, winning multiple division titles, and capturing their first Super Bowl title since the move to Indianapolis in 2007 (Super Bowl XLI).
Lucas Oil Stadium
He was also the person behind Lucas Oil Stadium, a modern building that opened in 2008. He successfully worked to bring Super Bowl XLVI to the city in 2012, which made Indianapolis a big place for football.
Throughout his time, Irsay wasn't just known for having a good team. He was also known for being an outspoken, sometimes a bit odd, but truly passionate owner. He cared about the game, his players, and the people around him. His work left a big mark on both the NFL and the Colts' story.
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