Jim Irsay, the long-serving owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts, passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 65. Known as one of the most colorful and influential figures in the NFL, Irsay leaves behind a legacy marked by championship success, bold decisions, philanthropy, and a unique public persona. He is survived by his three daughters, his ex-wife Meg Coyle, and ten grandchildren.

What Was the Cause of Jim Irsay’s Death?

As of now, the official cause of Jim Irsay’s death has not been disclosed. The Indianapolis Colts issued a brief statement confirming that he “passed away peacefully in his sleep.” However, given his well-documented health struggles, speculation has naturally followed.

In recent years, Irsay’s health had become a topic of concern. In January 2025, fans expressed alarm when he was seen being wheeled out of a game using a StairSteady device—equipment typically reserved for patients with limited mobility. ESPN had previously reported on Irsay’s openness about his long-term battles with addiction, calling it a “decades-long struggle.” These challenges were no secret, and the Irsay family became vocal advocates for addiction recovery and mental health awareness, launching initiatives like “Kicking the Stigma.”

Despite the rumors, there is no confirmed connection between his past struggles and his death. As of now, the public must await further information from the family or medical authorities.

Jim Irsay Net Worth

Jim Irsay had an estimated net worth of $4 billion at the time of his passing. The vast majority of his wealth stemmed from his ownership of the Colts, a franchise his father, Robert Irsay, acquired in 1972. That acquisition came by way of a complex trade deal where Robert Irsay purchased the Los Angeles Rams and immediately swapped them for the Baltimore Colts.

Jim was only 12 years old when his father bought the team, and by the age of 24, he was already making NFL history. In 1984, the same year the Colts relocated from Baltimore to Indianapolis, Jim became the youngest general manager in the league. He rose through the ranks, and after Robert’s death in 1997, Jim officially took over as principal owner following a legal battle with his stepmother.

Under his leadership, the Colts became one of the NFL’s most consistent and successful franchises. His business decisions—most notably hiring executive Bill Polian and drafting Peyton Manning in 1998—propelled the team into its golden era, including a win at Super Bowl XLI in 2007.

What Is Jim Irsay’s Legacy with the Indianapolis Colts?

Jim Irsay’s tenure as owner reshaped the Colts into a powerhouse. The franchise earned 10 division titles and 18 playoff appearances during his stewardship. His foresight and bold moves, including cutting ties with Manning in 2012 to draft Andrew Luck, showed a willingness to make hard choices for long-term gains.

He also spearheaded the construction of Lucas Oil Stadium, which opened in 2008 and remains one of the NFL’s premier venues. From guiding the franchise to two Super Bowl appearances to establishing a culture of community service, Irsay made a lasting impact on the city of Indianapolis and the league.

Perhaps the most iconic image of Irsay is from February 4, 2007: drenched in rain, hoisting the Lombardi Trophy high after the Colts triumphed in Super Bowl XLI. That night became a symbol of redemption—not only for the team but for the owner who had guided them back to relevance.

Who Will Inherit the Colts After Jim Irsay’s Death?

Jim Irsay is survived by his daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson. All three have played roles within the Colts organization, with Carlie considered the most involved. She notably stepped in for her father during his 2014 NFL suspension and has been active in decision-making roles ever since.

While no formal succession plan has been publicly announced, the expectation is that his daughters will assume collective control of the franchise. The Irsay family’s deep involvement in team operations suggests a continuation of Jim’s legacy through the next generation.

What Were Jim Irsay’s Contributions Outside of Football?

Beyond the gridiron, Jim Irsay carved a distinctive identity. A passionate music enthusiast, he curated the Jim Irsay Collection—an eclectic treasure trove featuring rare items from rock history, sports legends, and American culture. His philanthropic efforts, such as donations to the Irsay Family YMCA and the “Kicking the Stigma” campaign, positioned him as a leader in the mental health advocacy space.

Always one to defy the mold of a typical NFL owner, Irsay was famous for his eccentricity. Whether giving out $100 bills to fans at practice, belting out classic rock tunes with the Jim Irsay Band, or running trivia contests on Twitter, he broke convention in every sense.

What Made Jim Irsay a Unique NFL Owner?

Jim Irsay was never just another billionaire owner in a luxury box. He was, by all accounts, one of the league’s most visible and unpredictable figures. His guitar solos, bold tweets, and willingness to engage directly with fans made him both beloved and controversial.

He held major influence within the NFL’s inner circle as a member of the league’s Finance Committee and the chair of the Legislative Committee. In the 1980s, even before he took over the Colts, he helped design the league’s current salary cap system—an enduring structural change that reshaped the economics of pro football.

Yet it was his eccentric style and approachability that set him apart from his peers. Fans didn’t just see him as the man who ran the team—they saw him as part of the team.

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