Sometimes, grief comes rushing in when we least expect it—and for Reggie Wayne, the emotions hit hard while standing in front of reporters, trying to talk about someone who meant the world to him.
On Wednesday, the former Indianapolis Colts wide receiver, now the team’s receivers coach, broke down in tears as he remembered late team owner Jim Irsay, who recently passed away.
Wayne, now 46, was speaking not just as a coach or ex-player—but as someone who clearly loved and respected Irsay deeply.
“He Would’ve Given You the Shirt Off His Back”
While speaking to his current wide receivers, Wayne reminded them that even if they didn’t know Irsay well, they should still play their hearts out for him.
“I told the receivers, a lot of y’all might not have really known him, but he would’ve done anything for you,” Wayne said. “He would’ve given you the clothes off his back.
So I told them, push yourselves. He would’ve done that for you.”
He encouraged them to do a little homework—read about Irsay, understand who he really was, and what he stood for.
The Free Agency Phone Call That Changed Everything
Wayne also shared a personal story that captured Irsay’s commitment to his players.
It was back in 2012, after a tough 2-14 season.
Wayne had become a free agent and was planning to visit other teams, including the Chicago Bears and Kansas City Chiefs.
But then, he got a phone call that changed everything.
“You’re not taking that trip,” Irsay told him.
Wayne recalled how Irsay made a passionate plea for him to stay in Indianapolis—the place where he had built his career alongside Peyton Manning, Marvin Harrison, and Edgerrin James.
Irsay didn’t just want him to stay—he made him feel needed, valued, and wanted.
“You Could’ve Asked for $30 Million”
Eventually, Wayne re-signed with the Colts on a three-year, $17 million deal. But he remembered Irsay telling him something that stuck with him forever.
“You could’ve asked for $30 million,” Irsay said. “I would’ve given it to you.”
That wasn’t just about money—it was about loyalty, about valuing people beyond stats and contracts.
Wayne eventually earned his place in the Colts’ Ring of Honor, a tribute made possible in large part because Irsay believed in him.
Jim Irsay’s Final Chapter
Jim Irsay passed away last week at the age of 65 after battling health problems and struggling for years with addiction issues.
While the exact cause of his death hasn’t been publicly shared, his passing has left a noticeable void in the Colts community and beyond.
Irsay wasn’t just the guy who signed the checks. He was the heart of the franchise during some of its greatest moments—like when the Colts beat the Chicago Bears in the 2007 Super Bowl or when Lucas Oil Stadium was built under his watch.
Peyton Manning Pays Tribute to His First NFL Owner
Another Colts legend, Peyton Manning, took to Instagram to share his grief in a heartfelt message.
“I’m heartbroken to hear about Jim Irsay’s passing,” Manning wrote.
“He was incredibly generous and passionate… I will always be indebted to him for giving me my start in the NFL.”
Manning continued, “His love for the Colts and the city of Indy was unmatched.
His impact on the players who played for him will not be forgotten.
He will be missed. Jim, rest in peace my friend. #18.”
The Legacy of the Irsay Name in Indianapolis
The Irsay legacy in Indianapolis goes far beyond touchdowns and championship banners.
The family’s fortune was rooted in their HVAC empire before Jim’s father, Robert Irsay, bought the Colts in 1972 and relocated them to Indiana nine years later.
Now, with Jim gone, it’s expected that his oldest daughter, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, will take the reins.
According to The Athletic, she may assume the main ownership role, but reports say Jim wanted all three of his daughters—Carlie, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—to co-own the team together.
What Comes Next for the Colts
As the Colts organization faces this major transition, it’s clear that Irsay’s influence will continue to guide the franchise.
From his loyalty to players to his unwavering belief in Indianapolis, his legacy is already cemented.
And for those like Reggie Wayne, who lived through the highs and lows with him, this isn’t just the end of an era—it’s the loss of a mentor, a friend, and a man who truly cared.