On Wednesday afternoon, the NFL was hit with devastating news. At age 65, Colts owner and CEO Jim Ilsai passed away peacefully in his sleep.
Jim Irsay took over the ownership of the Colts principal in 1997. During his tenure, Indianapolis appeared in 16 playoffs, winning two AFC titles and one Super Bowl. Players, coaches and fans lamented the loss of Jim Irasha. He is survived by his daughters Carly Ilsai Gordon, Casey Foyt and Karen Jackson. Meg Coyle, the mother of his ex-wife and his daughter. and 10 grandchildren.
Longtime Colts owner Jim Ilsai passed away on Wednesday
The Colts have announced the death of legendary owner Jim Ilsai. pic.twitter.com/qpndkjmjhv
-Adam Scha After (@adamscha after) May 21, 2025
In 1984, Jim Ilsai became the youngest GM in NFL history at just 25 years old. When his father died in 1997, Irsay became the main owner of the Indianapolis Colts. He was the youngest owner of the NFL at the time. Jim Irsay was the definition of NFL Life. As a child, Irsay was playing in the locker room with Hall of Fame QB Johnny Unitas. That was where his love for the game grew up at a young age, and it never wavered.
Former Colts punter and ESPN Media member Pat McAfee shared an emotional tribute to Jim Ilsai on Wednesday evening. McAfee could say this.
“After the lockout in 2011, he and I actually attended training camp, where players and front office were not allowed to communicate with each other during lockout, but Jim followed me on Twitter during CBA negotiations. On the first day at training camp, right after the lockout ended, he won a golf cart. World .. He appreciated being able to share some of his thoughts in his own way. – Pat McCuffy
Additionally, former Colts head coach and Super Bowl champion Tony Dungey shared his thoughts via social media.
“When I received the news last night that Jim Ilsai had passed away about his sleep, the Bible says that tomorrow is not promised to us, but I wasn’t ready for this. Jim was one of the kindest and caring people I know. Others – more than you can imagine. – Tony Dungey
Jim Ilsai was a beloved figure of the Colts organization and other NFLs. His love for the Colts and the city of Indianapolis was unquestionable. The team ownership is expected to be transferred to his daughter. In 2012, they were each given ownership titles and played an active role in the organization. His eldest son, Carly Ilsai Gordon, is most actively involved in running the team. See how the Colts progress towards the 2025 season.
