Jim Irsay, longtime owner of the Indianapolis Colts, has died

INDIANAPOLIS (Gray News) - Longtime Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has died.

The team announced the 65-year-old’s death on Wednesday,

“Jim’s dedication and ion for the Indianapolis Colts, in addition to his generosity, commitment to the community, and most importantly, his love for his family were unsured,” the team shared in a statement.

According to the team, Irsay died in his sleep Wednesday afternoon.

FILE -- Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay talks during the Hall of Fame ring ceremony for... — FILE -- Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay talks during the Hall of Fame ring ceremony for Peyton Manning and Edgerrin James in 2021.(AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)

“Our deepest sympathies go to his daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, Kalen Jackson, and his entire family as we grieve with them,” the Colts’ statement continued.

Irsay had a profound impact on the franchise, helping turn the team into a perennial title contender through the years with such hires as general manager Bill Polian, head coach Tony Dungy, along with drafting quarterback Peyton Manning in 1998.

Jim Irsay’s journey with the Colts started in 1972 when his father, Robert Irsay, acquired the team. Jim Irsay eventually took over the team in 1997.

No cause of death was immediately announced.