Titans Release Statement After Colts Owner’s Death.
On May 21, 2025, the NFL community was shaken by the passing of Jim Irsay, the longtime owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts. At 65, Irsay died peacefully in his sleep, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, philanthropy, and a deep love for the game of football. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the league, including heartfelt messages from the Tennessee Titans.(People.com, The US Sun, The Times of India)
Jim Irsay’s journey with the Indianapolis Colts began in 1984 when he became the youngest general manager in NFL history. He took over as sole owner in 1997 after the passing of his father, Robert Irsay, who had purchased the team in 1972. Under Jim’s stewardship, the Colts achieved significant success, including winning Super Bowl XLI in 2007 with quarterback Peyton Manning at the helm. Beyond his contributions on the field, Irsay was known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in mental health advocacy through his “Kicking The Stigma” campaign, which donated over $25 million to support mental health and addiction recovery initiatives. (The US Sun, People.com)
Despite facing personal challenges, including a 2014 DUI arrest and a near-fatal overdose in 2023, Irsay remained a respected figure in the NFL. He was also an avid music lover, often sharing his extensive collection with fans and performing with his band at charity events. (People.com)
In the wake of Irsay’s passing, the Tennessee Titans expressed their condolences and honored his memory. Titans controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk released a statement reflecting on Irsay’s impact on the league and the Indianapolis community. Strunk’s words highlighted Irsay’s dedication to the sport and his role in shaping the NFL’s landscape. The Titans’ tribute underscores the respect and admiration Irsay garnered from fellow NFL owners and organizations. (New York Post, tennesseetitans.com)
The Tennessee Titans and the Indianapolis Colts share a rich history, both on and off the field. The Titans, originally known as the Houston Oilers, moved to Tennessee in 1997, the same year Jim Irsay became the sole owner of the Colts. This parallel timeline has fostered a unique rivalry and camaraderie between the two franchises. Their matchups are always highly anticipated, with the next games scheduled as follows:(CNN)
- Indianapolis Colts @ Tennessee Titans on Sunday, Sep 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM PDT
- Tennessee Titans @ Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, Oct 26, 2025 at 01:25 PM PDT
These games not only represent competition but also a continuation of the shared history and respect between the two organizations.
Jim Irsay’s influence extended beyond the Colts and the Titans. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed deep sorrow over Irsay’s passing, praising his leadership and commitment to the league. Former Colts quarterback Peyton Manning, who began his career under Irsay’s ownership, described him as a generous and passionate leader. Manning credited Irsay for launching his NFL career and emphasized Irsay’s deep love for the Colts and Indianapolis. (The US Sun, New York Post)
The Indianapolis community also mourned the loss, with tributes pouring in from fans and local organizations. The Indiana Pacers honored Irsay during their playoff game, acknowledging his significant role in shaping Indianapolis as a sports city. (The Times of India, New York Post)
Jim Irsay’s passing marks the end of an era for the Indianapolis Colts and the NFL as a whole. His leadership, philanthropy, and passion for football left an indelible mark on the league. The Tennessee Titans, along with other NFL organizations, have paid tribute to his memory, reflecting the respect and admiration he garnered throughout his tenure. As the Titans and Colts continue their rivalry on the field, Irsay’s legacy will undoubtedly influence their shared history for years to come.
