Photo Credit: Marian Knights via X
Jim Irsay was only 13 when his father, Bob Irsay, bought the Baltimore Colts in 1972. Though he grew up in a wealthy family, Jim didn’t jump straight into a high-ranking role. He worked behind the scenes, doing everything from picking up jockstraps to answering phones in the ticket office. Those early responsibilities taught him how the organization worked from the inside.
As he gained more experience, Jim eventually worked in the personnel department and became the team’s general manager. When his father passed away in 1997, Jim officially took over ownership of the franchise, which had moved to Indianapolis in 1984. His journey through the ranks helped define his leadership style. That legacy now shifts to his daughters following his death at age 65.
A Lifelong Education in Football
Jim Irsay’s three daughters — Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson — have grown up around the Colts, just like their father did. They’ve worked in the organization for years, learning about both football and business from the ground up. Jim didn’t force them into the family business, but he encouraged them to follow their interests.
“I started out in the ticket office,” Carlie said during a 2017 town hall event. “But over the years, my dad has encouraged my sisters and I to get involved in the places we’re interested in.
“When we were growing up, it was, ‘You don’t have to do this.’ But I love it.”
In 2010, Jim gave each daughter the title of vice chair/owner. It was a clear message that the team would remain in the family — and that he trusted them to be future leaders.
Carlie Irsay-Gordon Leads from the Sidelines
Carlie, the oldest of the three, has become a major figure in running the team. She helps manage day-to-day operations and is active on several NFL committees, including one focused on league-wide investments. Her commitment to the football side of the business has been especially visible in recent years.
She regularly watches practice from the sidelines, headset on, call sheet in hand, learning how coaches make decisions in real time. Those close to her say she has spent more than a decade studying the game in detail and gaining the respect of those around her. An NFL executive called her “a perfect modern-day owner” who combines football knowledge, business sense, and people skills.
Carlie stepped into a leadership role in 2014 when her father was suspended by the league following a DUI arrest. At the time, the Colts made it clear she had full authority over decisions, a move that signaled her readiness to lead.
Casey and Kalen Bring Their Own Strengths
Carlie isn’t alone in preparing for this transition. Casey Foyt has a background in sports management and has worked on NFL events since at least 2007, when she helped with the league’s first regular-season game in London. Her experience gives her a strong understanding of event planning and league operations.
Kalen Jackson has taken charge of the team’s community efforts. She helped launch “Kicking the Stigma,” a mental health campaign that has already donated over $31 million to mental health organizations. Kalen also chairs the NFL’s employee benefits committee and is well respected in league circles.
Trusted Voices Will Help Guide the Transition
Carlie, Casey, and Kalen won’t be alone in this new chapter. Two longtime team executives — chief operating officer Pete Ward and chief legal officer Dan Emerson — are expected to help guide the transition. Ward is entering his 45th season with the team, while Emerson has been advising the Irsay family since 1984.
What Comes Next
There are still questions about how the sisters will share responsibilities and whether estate taxes will affect the family’s ownership. While it’s believed that Jim Irsay transferred some of the franchise to his daughters in recent years, details remain private.
What is certain, however, is that the Irsay daughters have spent their entire lives getting ready for this moment. With experience, passion, and a deep connection to the Colts, they are more than prepared to take over.
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This report used information from ESPN.
