The Indianapolis Colts are set to honor their late owner, Jim Irsay, throughout the 2025 NFL season with a commemorative jersey patch. The team announced the decision to wear the patch as a tribute to Irsay, who passed away at the age of 65.

The black patch will feature Irsay's initials, his signature, and his trademark smiley face, a design element he commonly included in autographs. Adding a unique touch, the patch incorporates seven grommets, a subtle nod to the seven grommets found on the Colts' iconic horseshoe logo.

The Colts revealed the patch on Tuesday, May 27, across their digital platforms, updating their social media profile images to match the commemorative design. A tribute video was also released, showcasing Irsay's impactful moments with the team, including speeches, Super Bowl celebrations, and interactions with fans.

Jim Irsay's influence on the Colts and the NFL was profound. He became the youngest general manager in NFL history at 24 in 1984 and assumed ownership of the franchise in 1997, becoming the youngest NFL owner at 37 after his father's death. Under his leadership, the Colts achieved significant success, making 16 playoff appearances, winning two AFC championships, and securing a Super Bowl XLI victory in 2007 against the Chicago Bears. From 2000 to 2009, the Colts won 115 regular-season games, setting an NFL record for a single decade. During his time as Owner and CEO, Irsay oversaw 10 division titles, two AFC Championships, and the Super Bowl victory.

Irsay's contributions extended beyond the field, transforming the Colts into a dominant force in the AFC and leaving a lasting legacy on the league. His passion for the game, the city of Indianapolis, and the Colts community was widely recognized.

In addition to the jersey patch, the Colts will induct Jim Irsay into the team's Ring of Honor during their season opener on September 7 against the Miami Dolphins at Lucas Oil Stadium. The announcement was made on June 13, which would have been Irsay's 66th birthday. He will be the 20th member of the Colts Ring of Honor, joining his father, Robert Irsay, who was the inaugural inductee in 1996, and other Colts legends.

Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Colts Owner & CEO, stated that there was no bigger advocate for the Colts, the NFL, the city of Indianapolis, and the state of Indiana than Jim Irsay. She added that it is fitting for him to join the other amazing Colts legends in the Ring of Honor.

The Colts will reveal further details of events planned to honor Irsay's life and legacy later this summer. As the 2025 season approaches, the Indianapolis Colts organization and its fans will remember and celebrate Jim Irsay's contributions to the team and the city.