Three months after Jim Irsay's sudden passing, a cause of death has finally been reported. The late Indianapolis Colts owner's daughters, who have assumed his former role, released a statement on his reported relapse from the drug addiction that plagued his life.
Irsay struggled with drug addiction for years and overdosed three times in the last five years of his life, The Washington Post reported. The situation hospitalized him on multiple occasions and forced him to see an addiction specialist, who prescribed him opioids and ketamine.
Since the reports have surfaced, Irsay's daughters have released a public statement. They acknowledged how addiction affected the end of his life, noting that Irsay never attempted to hide his issues and continuously fought them to the end.
“We continue to grieve the loss of our Dad, a man defined not only by his role as owner of the Colts, but also by his resilience, his personal struggles, and his deep love for family, friends, and community,” the statement read, via ‘The Athletic.' “Throughout his life, our Dad was open about his battles with addiction and mental health. He never claimed to be perfect. Instead, he used his voice to reduce stigma and advocate for those facing similar challenges, with honesty, vulnerability, and compassion. We understand the public interest in his life and legacy.”
The women added that they “decline to comment” any further on their father's passing. The Colts are expected to honor Irsay in 2025 and will induct him into their Ring of Honor.
Colts' new ownership begins with 2025 NFL season
Irsay's three daughters — Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson — are now the Colts' three owners. All three also assume other roles, with Irsay-Gordon seemingly leading the way as the owner and CEO. Foyt also serves as the executive vice president, while Jackson is the team's Chief Brand Officer and president of the Indianapolis Colts Foundation.
Although no longer in charge, Jim Irsay's death has not affected his highly respected legacy. The former businessman remains one of the most well-known figures in the state of Indiana and has multiple structures and foundations named in his honor.
As they take over their father's businesses, Jim Irsay's daughters have been involved with the Colts for years. All three were officially named as co-owners in 2012. Carlie Irsay-Gordon has been the most hands-on with the organization and has the most experience as the oldest of the three.
