James Irsay

James Irsay is an American businessman. He is the owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League.

  • Jim Irsay owns the Indianapolis Colts, the NFL team he inherited from his father, Robert Irsay (d. 1997).
  • He grew up with the Colts, living with the team during summer camp and traveling on the team bus.
  • Irsay played football at Southern Methodist University, where he studied broadcast journalism, before joining the Colts’ front office.
  • He worked in everything from ticket sales to public relations before being named GM in 1984, at 24. Upon his father’s death, Irsay became 100% owner.
  • Since Irsay assumed ownership, the Colts have become noticeably more successful, notching 14 winning seasons (including a Super Bowl win in 2006).