Pat McAfee spent his entire eight-year NFL career as a member of the Indianapolis Colts. The two-time Pro Bowler has become one of the most popular voices in sports media since his retirement from the league in 2016.
During that time, he maintained a close relationship with Jim Irsay, who was the principal owner, chairman, and CEO of the franchise from 1997 until his death on Wednesday. The ESPN analyst shared a heartfelt tribute to the Colts’ owner on “The Pat McAfee Show.”
Pat McAfee Shares Tribute to Jim Irsay Following Shocking Death
Irsay was widely considered to be a “players’ owner” as he maintained a relationship with many players who were part of the Colts organization. McAfee was one of those former players who had a strong relationship with the late owner.
Speaking on “The Pat McAfee Show,” he gave a tribute to Irsay, stating:
“Here’s Jim, on our show, doing his thing, showing the world exactly who he is, which is a compassionate, brilliant, wealthy legend. Rest easy, Jim. I f**king love you, man… Rest in peace, man. Obviously, sending nothing but positive vibes and love to his daughters, his grandkids, his son-in-law, his loved ones, as a whole, his staff – there’s a great group of people that have been around him for a very long time.
“And I got a chance to send them messages overnight. The Gormans, Scottie and Jeff have been with Jim for like 30 years. Pete Ward has been with Jim Irsay since Baltimore. Let alone the training room that he has kept, literally, since Baltimore – the equipment staff, everybody. He takes care of his people.
“He’s so loyal, and I have no idea how they are all feeling today and last night, but just know, you guys all did good, man. Jim had a great group of people around him, and that’s because he had a great eye for talent, and he had a great aura. Rest in peace, Jim, I appreciate the s**t out of you, man.”
Jim Irsay was a real one.. and we will all miss the shit out of him.
I send my positive prayers and vibes to his daughters, his grandkids, his loved ones, his staff, and everybody who has been working with Jim for the last 40 years.
Thank you for EVERYTHING big man.. You were a… https://t.co/da4x9iqxyt pic.twitter.com/QktktMrXcx
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow)
McAfee’s tribute included a video montage of Irsay making several appearances on his show.
While no cause of death was given, the Colts announced that he passed away peacefully in his sleep. The long-time NFL owner had battled health issues in recent years. He is survived by his three daughters and 10 grandchildren. It is unclear who will take over as CEO of the organization following his passing.