Who Was Jim Irsay? How Did Jim Irsay Die?

Jim Irsay, the longtime owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts, passed away on May 21, 2025. He was 65. His death closed a major chapter in NFL history. For decades, Irsay was one of the most passionate and unique voices in the league.

Let’s take a closer look at his legacy, his struggles, and what comes next for the Colts.

A Legacy Built on Football and Family

Jim Irsay was born into football. His father, Robert Irsay, bought the Colts in 1972. From a young age, Jim worked behind the scenes, learning the business. By 1984, he was the NFL’s youngest general manager at just 24.

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He officially took full control of the franchise in 1997. That moment followed a legal dispute after his father’s death. But once he took over, he left no doubt about his leadership.

Under Irsay’s watch, the Colts had some of their best seasons. The biggest highlight? A Super Bowl victory in the 2006 season. Peyton Manning was the face on the field, but Jim was the heart off of it.

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He loved the game deeply. And it showed in how he ran the team.

Personal Battles and Health Struggles

While Irsay was a bold and successful figure in football, he also faced serious personal battles.

He spoke openly about his struggles with addiction. He credited Alcoholics Anonymous for helping him in his recovery journey. But the road wasn’t smooth.

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In 2014, Irsay was arrested for DUI and drug possession. That led to a six-game NFL suspension and a $500,000 fine. It was a tough chapter, but he didn’t hide from it.

In late 2023, Jim was hospitalized for a severe respiratory illness. Reports from TMZ said he was found unresponsive at home, with signs of agonal breathing and a weak pulse. Narcan was used. The incident was classified as a suspected overdose.

Later, Jim and the Colts said it was due to complications from a leg injury. He said a hematoma and surgery were to blame, not drugs.

Regardless of the cause, his health issues became more visible over time.

Fighting for Mental Health

One of Jim Irsay’s proudest efforts wasn’t about football at all.

In 2020, he launched a campaign called “Kicking the Stigma.” It focused on mental health awareness. Irsay and his family donated over $25 million to support this cause.

He wanted people to talk about mental health without shame. He knew what it felt like to suffer in silence. So, he used his voice and resources to help others.