The Indianapolis Colts have officially announced a transition of ownership from the late Jim Irsay to his three daughters: Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson. This change, effective immediately, was revealed on Monday.
Since 2012, Irsay-Gordon, Foyt, and Jackson have held the position of vice chair/owners for the Colts. In their new roles, Irsay-Gordon will take on the position of owner and CEO, becoming the team’s principal owner. Foyt has been designated as owner and executive vice president, while Jackson will serve as both owner and chief brand officer, in addition to her responsibilities as president of the Indianapolis Colts Foundation.
Jim Irsay passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 21, 2025, at the age of 65. He had been the owner of the Colts since succeeding his father, Robert Irsay, in 1997.
During his absence due to legal issues in March 2014, Carlie Irsay-Gordon became the primary decision-maker for the Colts. After her father’s DUI arrest, she stepped in while he was in rehab and again when the NFL handed him a six-game suspension that season. She is known for being actively involved during draft weekends, donning a headset on game days, and playing a significant role in the team’s recent coaching search, which led to Shane Steichen’s hiring.
Years prior, Jim Irsay paved the way for his daughters’ future roles in the organization, expressing his desire for them to share ownership equally. “One will hold the vote as principal owner,” he noted, “but that doesn’t mean that it can’t rotate.” In a 2021 interview with The Athletic, he praised his daughters’ capabilities and lifelong connection to the league, saying, “I want them to be who they are. They’ve known this league since they were in their cribs.”
General Manager Chris Ballard and Chief Operating Officer Pete Ward will continue to manage the day-to-day operations of the Colts, ensuring stability as the new ownership takes shape.
While the passing of an owner can often trigger interest from potential buyers, the Irsay family’s plan was always to keep the team within the family. Monday’s announcement served to clarify the roles of the new ownership rather than react to any immediate upheaval.
As Carlie Irsay-Gordon steps into her role as principal owner, many wonder how she will approach her relationship with General Manager Chris Ballard, who is entering his ninth season with the franchise. His previous tenure has yielded only two playoff appearances, one postseason victory, and no AFC South titles.