“This is terrible.” With those simple yet powerful words, Pat McAfee began his emotional tribute to the late Jim Irsay, owner of the Indianapolis Colts. But the weight behind that statement carried far more than grief—it encapsulated a profound sense of loss shared by countless people touched by Irsay’s life. In McAfee’s heartfelt remembrance, he did not merely mourn the loss of a team owner; he honored the life of a man whose compassion, generosity, and belief in others left a lasting impact far beyond football.
Jim Irsay’s legacy is often defined by his role at the helm of the Colts organization, a position he held with pride and vision. But as McAfee so poignantly conveyed, Irsay’s true legacy lies not in trophies or win-loss records, but in the people he uplifted—players, coaches, fans, and community members alike. He was a man who gave endlessly, not only with his wealth but with his time, his attention, and his heart.
McAfee, who spent eight seasons punting for the Colts, often spoke of Irsay with deep respect and affection. In his tribute, he reflected on the unique relationship they shared—one built not merely on professional obligation, but on mutual admiration. “This is terrible,” McAfee said again, his voice heavy, “because Jim wasn’t just an owner. He was family.”
For McAfee, Irsay was more than a boss. He was a mentor and a believer—someone who saw in him the potential for greatness, not only as a player but as a man with a voice and platform. During times when McAfee faced uncertainty about his career or personal life, Irsay was there—not with platitudes, but with presence. He listened. He encouraged. He reminded McAfee, and many others, of their value and their worth.
That kind of leadership is rare. Irsay had an uncanny ability to make people feel seen and appreciated, regardless of status. He would celebrate a touchdown with the same enthusiasm as he would a player’s charitable work or personal growth. He was the type of owner who would send a handwritten note to a staff member going through a tough time, or offer financial assistance quietly to someone in need. His acts of kindness, though often private, rippled out into the lives of thousands.
In his tribute, McAfee shared memories that captured the essence of Irsay’s spirit: late-night phone calls just to check in, passionate speeches that lit up the locker room, and unwavering support during personal hardships. “Jim had this light about him,” McAfee said. “He made you want to be better—not just on the field, but as a human being.”
Irsay’s influence extended well beyond the Colts organization. He was a dedicated philanthropist who poured millions into mental health initiatives, addiction recovery, music education, and social justice causes. He wasn’t afraid to talk about his own struggles with addiction, using his platform to destigmatize issues that often remain hidden in the shadows. That vulnerability made him more than a leader—it made him relatable and deeply human.
For McAfee, Irsay’s openness about his own battles was especially impactful. It was a reminder that strength doesn’t come from pretending to have it all together—it comes from being honest, resilient, and compassionate. “Jim showed us that it’s okay to be real,” McAfee said. “And in being real, he helped a lot of people heal.”
The emotional weight of McAfee’s words served as a reminder of the immense influence one man can have. In his lifetime, Jim Irsay built more than a football franchise—he built a culture rooted in loyalty, empathy, and hope. His legacy is etched in community centers, recovery programs, and the hearts of those he championed.
“This is terrible,” McAfee repeated toward the end of his tribute. “But what’s beautiful is that we all got to know him. We got to witness his heart, his passion, and his purpose. And now it’s on us to carry that forward.”
Indeed, while the pain of Irsay’s passing is deeply felt, the love he gave and the lives he touched endure. Pat McAfee’s emotional words offered not only a reflection of personal loss, but a call to remember and honor a life that made the world kinder and more connected.
In the end, Jim Irsay’s story is one of impact—one that will be told for years to come not just in highlight reels or team records, but in the stories of those who were lifted by his kindness, believed in by his spirit, and loved by his heart.
