Stanford general manager Andrew Luck and interim head coach Frank Reich have offered tributes following the death of Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay on Tuesday. He was 65.
“I am saddened to hear of the passing of Jim Irsay,” Luck said in a statement. “Jim loved the Colts with his whole heart, and his passion for football and his franchise was unwavering. I will always be grateful for the support he showed me and the team during my time in Indianapolis. He cared deeply for the players, the fans, and the entire Colts organization. My thoughts are with his family and all who were close with him.”
Luck was drafted No. 1 overall by the Colts in 2012 and played six seasons in Indianapolis.
He’s now entering his first year as general manager at Stanford after being hired in November. Following Troy Taylor’s departure this spring, Luck brought in Reich to serve as Stanford’s interim head coach for the 2025 season.
Reich, who spent multiple stints with the Colts organization — including as the team’s head coach from 2018 to 2022 — also shared a message about Irsay’s passing.
“I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of Indianapolis Colts owner and CEO Jim Irsay,” Reich said. “Mr. Irsay had the rare combination of being a fierce competitor while at the same time having immense compassion for those who were hurting and suffering. His passion for the game and the city of Indianapolis shaped my experience with the Colts and I could not be more grateful for the partnership he and I shared.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his daughters Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, Kalen Jackson, and the entire Irsay family during this time.”
General Manager Andrew Luck and Interim Head Coach Frank Reich remember their former colleague and friend, Jim Irsay. https://t.co/7xS7C93Y0w pic.twitter.com/oeQc4alI5S
— Stanford Football (@StanfordFball) May 22, 2025
Irsay assumed full ownership of the Colts in 1997 after the passing of his father, Robert Irsay.
His tenure included the drafting of Peyton Manning, a Super Bowl title in 2006, and the post-Manning transition led by Luck. Irsay remained involved in team operations, philanthropy, and his community in Indianapolis throughout his ownership.
His legacy continues through the players, coaches, and staff he supported — many of whom, like Luck and Reich, carry his influence into new chapters of their football journeys.
