In a moment filled with deep emotion and heartfelt memories, former Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Reggie Wayne delivered a moving tribute today following the passing of longtime Colts owner Jim Irsay. Wayne, a beloved figure in Colts history, reflected on his close relationship with Irsay, calling him “more than just an owner — he was family.”
“Jim would have done anything for anybody,” Wayne said, his voice breaking as he addressed a crowd of mourners and reporters gathered outside the Colts’ training facility. “He had the heart of a giant, and this entire organization was his life.”
Irsay, who died earlier this week at the age of 65, was known not only for leading the Colts to a Super Bowl XLI championship in 2007 but also for his passionate and sometimes eccentric presence in the league. His impact went far beyond the field — from philanthropy to music, mental health advocacy, and unwavering support for his players.
Reggie Wayne, who spent his entire 14-year NFL career with the Colts under Irsay’s leadership, credited him for helping shape both his professional and personal life.
“He believed in me when I was just a kid out of Miami,” Wayne recalled. “Every big moment in my career — he was there. But more than that, he showed up in the tough times too. That’s who he was.”
A Legacy Beyond Football
Jim Irsay took over ownership of the Colts in 1997 following the death of his father, Robert Irsay. Under his stewardship, the Colts became one of the NFL’s most consistent franchises, especially during the Peyton Manning and Andrew Luck eras. Off the field, Irsay became a vocal supporter of addiction recovery, mental health awareness, and charitable causes throughout Indiana and beyond.
His recent public struggles with health and personal issues had been met with support from across the NFL community, many of whom praised his openness and vulnerability.
NFL Community Reacts
Tributes have poured in from around the league, with former Colts quarterback Peyton Manning calling Irsay “a passionate leader and loyal friend,” and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell describing him as “a fiercely committed owner who cared deeply for his team, his city, and the game of football.”
Colts players, past and present, took to social media to honor Irsay’s memory. T.Y. Hilton wrote, “Thank you for everything, Mr. Irsay. You believed in us. Rest easy.”
A City in Mourning
In downtown Indianapolis, Lucas Oil Stadium was draped in blue and white, with a large video screen displaying photos and quotes from Irsay’s decades-long involvement with the team. Fans left flowers, jerseys, and heartfelt notes at a growing memorial outside Gate 1.
The Colts organization has announced a public memorial service to be held next week at the stadium. Details will be released in the coming days.
Final Words from a Legend
Wayne closed his tribute with a simple message: “Jim Irsay wasn’t just our owner. He was our friend, our mentor, and our rock. I know he’s watching from above — probably in a leather jacket, guitar in hand, cheering us on like he always did. We’ll miss you, Jim.”
