The NFL team Indianapolis Colts announced on Wednesday that their owner and CEO Jim Irsay has passed away at the age of 65. "We are devastated to announce our beloved Owner & CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon," the Colts said, expressing their grief. The organization offered its condolences to his entire family, including his daughters Kalen Jackson, Casey Foyt, and Carlie Irsay-Gordon. Although Jim Irsay's cause of death was not made public, he had experienced several health issues recently.

How Did Jim Irsay Die?

He reportedly suffered from a severe respiratory illness and had a suspected overdose of opioids in December 2023. Irsay's lengthy history of addiction and numerous orthopaedic surgeries added to his health issues.

On December 8, 2023, police in Carmel, Indiana, discovered Irsay unconscious in his home in a troubling event. He had a feeble pulse and symptoms of agonizing respiration. Before being admitted to the hospital, he showed a modest improvement after officers gave him Narcan, a drug used to counteract narcotic overdoses.

Although the incident was initially classified as a suspected overdose, specific details about the substances involved were not made public. Following this event, the Colts referred to his condition as a "severe respiratory illness" and requested privacy for the family.

Jim Irsay has a well-documented history of addiction, having spent at least 15 years in treatment and had a near-fatal overdose that necessitated emergency care. Among his legal issues was an arrest for driving while under the influence of prescription drugs in 2014. Despite these difficulties, Irsay was renowned for his commitment to the Colts. After assuming sole control in 1997, he guided the team to several division victories and its first Super Bowl Championship.

The Colts organisation highlighted that many of Irsay's fondest memories were rooted in his early experiences with the team, where he developed lasting relationships with players and staff. Jim Irsay's passing marks the end of an era for the Indianapolis Colts, a team he significantly shaped through his leadership and commitment.