Former Colts coach Tony Dungy was left heartbroken after learning of longtime owner Jim Irsay’s death on Wednesday at the age of 65. Irsay passed away in his sleep, leaving Dungy and other former players and staff members shocked.
Dungy, who coached the Colts from 2002 to 2008 and won Super Bowl XLI with quarterback Peyton Manning, took to social media to pay tribute to Irsay’s kind heart and generosity. “Jim was one of the kindest, most compassionate people I have ever known,” Dungy wrote on X.
Manning also expressed his grief, saying Irsay gave him his start in the NFL and that his impact on players who played for him will not be forgotten. The NFL community has rallied around Irsay’s family, with many paying tribute to the beloved owner who was known for his love of the city of Indianapolis and its people.
Irsay had recently extended an invitation to Dungy to speak to the Colts’ rookies, but Dungy missed the event due to a 30-minute flight delay. He expressed regret over missing this opportunity to see Irsay again.
Source: https://nypost.com/2025/05/22/sports/tony-dungy-rues-missed-jim-irsays-opportunity-after-colts-owners-death