INDIANAPOLIS — When you think of the Indianapolis Colts, the name Jim Irsay looms large. Born into privilege, Jim was raised in the world of professional football, with his father, Bob Irsay, acquiring the Baltimore Colts in 1972. Long before inheriting the team, Jim started at the bottom, doing everything from cleaning the locker room to answering phones in the ticket office. This hands-on experience laid the foundation for his understanding of the football business.
Now, following Jim Irsay’s passing at the age of 65, questions swirl about the future of Colts ownership. The reins are set to be handed over to the next generation: his three daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson. Having spent their lives immersed in the franchise, they are no strangers to the challenges and opportunities that come with managing a professional football team.
“I started out in the ticket office,” Carlie recalled during a Colts town hall back in 2017. “But over the years, my dad encouraged my sisters and me to get involved in the places we’re interested in. When we were growing up, it was always, ‘You don’t have to do this.’ But I love it.”
These daughters are not just heirs; they’re prepared to take on the roles of co-owners. Fourteen years ago, their father formally recognized them with titles of “vice chair/owner,” signaling his intention for the franchise’s future to remain within the family.
So, what does the future look like? Each sister has carved out her niche. Carlie is actively involved in the daily operations of the Colts, focusing on everything from marketing to player personnel decisions. Meanwhile, Casey brings a wealth of experience in special events, dating back to her work during the NFL’s debut regular-season game in London in 2007. The youngest, Kalen, has emerged as a champion for the franchise’s charitable efforts, particularly with the Kicking the Stigma campaign, which has dedicated over $31 million to mental health organizations. She also chairs the NFL’s employee benefits committee, showing her commitment to both the business and community aspects of the franchise.
While all three daughters have valuable contributions, Carlie stands out as someone who has deeply engaged with the inner workings of the Colts. She’s become a staple on the sidelines, absorbing insights from coaches and players, clipboard in hand—an effort to blend her passion for the game with practical knowledge. An executive from another team praised her, saying, “Carlie, specifically, will be the perfect modern-day owner. She’s been embedded in the business for over a decade, continuously learning and seeking to understand the game from all angles.”
Her past experience stepping in during her father’s suspension in 2014 showcased her capacity to lead. Carlie made crucial decisions during a turbulent time, and now, she’s set to take the spotlight once again. “People can underestimate her if they wish,” another executive commented. “She is tough, sharp, intelligent, works extremely hard, and knows football. As long as she surrounds herself with the right team, she will thrive.”
As they step into these new roles, the Irsay sisters will also lean on longtime confidants, like COO Pete Ward and chief legal officer Dan Emerson, who have been part of the Colts family for decades. Their wisdom will be critical in the transition to a new era.
However, the path forward isn’t without its complexities—will the sisters find common ground in decision-making? What’s more, estate taxes could complicate matters; while Jim Irsay reportedly transferred partial ownership to them over the years, the specifics remain unclear.
Despite these uncertainties, one thing stands clear: the Irsay daughters have been preparing for this moment since childhood. Their time has come, and they are ready to embrace the challenge of leading the Colts into the future. Keep an eye on them; this next chapter in Colts history is sure to be intriguing.
