Colts’ Reggie Wayne Tearfully Honors Jim Irsay’s Big Heart and Lasting Legacy

Indianapolis Colts legend and current wide receivers coach Reggie Wayne struggled to hold back tears during a heartfelt press conference Wednesday, mourning the loss of team owner Jim Irsay, who passed away last week at 65. The Super Bowl XLI champion spoke of Irsay as a father figure, saying, "It’s like losing a family member. He treated me like one of his own."

Irsay, who died in his sleep, was more than just an owner to Wayne and the Colts organization. Starting as a ball boy in 1972 when his father owned the Baltimore Colts, Irsay rose to become the NFL’s youngest owner at 37 after his father’s death in 1997. "He had the biggest heart in this city," Wayne said, highlighting Irsay’s generosity and deep connection to Indianapolis. "He’d give the clothes off his back for anyone."

Wayne, a six-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro, played his entire 14-year career with the Colts after being drafted in 2001. He ranks second in franchise receiving records, trailing only Marvin Harrison. Now coaching, Wayne urged his players to honor Irsay’s legacy. "I told them, ‘Y’all don’t know him, but he’d have done anything for you. Push for him. Learn about him.’"

Despite personal battles with health and addiction, Irsay’s leadership brought pride and success to the Colts, leaving a lasting mark on the team and city. His loss reverberates through the franchise and beyond, a testament to a man who cared deeply for his players, staff, and community.