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The NFL world was stunned by the sudden passing of Jim Irsay Wednesday at the age of 65. The iconic Indianapolis Colts owner was one of the league’s most colorful characters, and much beloved by the team’s fans and players alike. And Irsay’s incredible tenure with the franchise featured some unforgettable highs, including changing the Colts’ culture by drafting quarterback Peyton Manning first overall in 1998, which ultimately led to the team wining Super Bowl 41 over the Bears.
One of the most important Colts' players in the post-Manning era was wideout T.Y. Hilton, who was selected by Indianapolis in the third round of the 2021 draft and played 10 seasons for Irsay’s team.
Upon learning the news of his former team’s owner’s passing, Hilton got emotional. “Please don’t ask me if I’m ok. Cuz I’m not. Thank You Sooo Much Mr. Irsay. I will forever hold our talks close to my heart. Love You! RIP Mr. Irsay,” Hilton wrote on his official X account, including a photo of the two men arm-in-arm in the Colts’ locker room.
Wideout T.Y. Hilton remembers Colts' owner Jim Irsay
Hilton became a star receiver with Indianapolis, producing five 1,000+ yard seasons, including four straight and one in which he came just 34 yards shy of the mark. Hilton led the NFL in receiving in 2016 with 1,448 yards. He also caught 91 passes and six touchdowns that season.
Hilton made the Pro Bowl four times as a member of the Colts. Even later in his career, he was still considered the center of Indy’s offense. It is clear the franchise – and its owner – meant a great deal to him and also played a major role in his successful career.
Hilton even turned down more money from the Ravens to stay with the Colts prior to the 2021 season. Injuries began to take their toll at that stage of his career, however. And he eventually left the team after a decade, signing with the Cowboys, for whom he played three games. He retired after the season.
The NFL world is mourning the untimely death of Jim Irsay. He first joined the Colts in 1984 as general manager and took over from his father as owner in 1997. Almost immediately, he put his own personal touch on the team.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement expressing his sadness over Irsay’s passing and noting his commitment to the Colts franchise, its players and fans.
