A recent post by The Athletic revealed that Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay had relapsed before his death in May, according to an investigative report published by The Washington Post.
Colts owner Jim Irsay relapsed before his death in May, according to an investigation from The Washington Post.
The Post found that Irsay was under the care of a “luxury” recovery doctor who prescribed him opioids and eventually ketamine.https://t.co/67TxgkWAiF
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) August 28, 2025
The investigation reported that Irsay was receiving treatment from what was termed a luxury recovery physician, who prescribed Irsay opioid painkillers and ketamine injections in the years preceding his death.
Documents and court records that the outlet checked apparently showed that Irsay relapsed regardless of several earlier treatment attempts. He was not shy about his substance abuse problem, having been arrested and in several rehabilitation centers in the past.
The Colts organization has not issued any statement so far regarding the latest report. Irsay, the team owner since 1997 and a high-profile figure in the NFL, left the team to his three daughters.

Irsay’s Legacy
Irsay was a widely recognized philanthropist, particularly in the state of Indiana. He contributed to youth, mental health, and addiction recovery through his ‘Kicking the Stigma’ campaign and substantial personal donations. When it was launched, the Colts became the first franchise to create an initiative around mental health. Irsay was also the initiator of donations to institutions in Indianapolis, such as Riley Hospital for Children and Indiana University.
Colts Turn the Page With Daniel Jones as QB1
The Colts will embrace a new challenge in 2025 with a new quarterback leading their team. Daniel Jones beat Anthony Richardson in the QB battle and will jump-start Indianapolis, which finished 8-9 last year. Jones signed this March on a one-year deal, and the Colts will start their season against the Miami Dolphins on Sep. 7.
Many analysts were surprised by the Colts’ decision not to start their young sophomore in Richardson, including Jon Spradley of Stampede Blue. Spradley opined that Richardson did enough to retain the role, yet the coaching staff went in another direction.
With Jones taking over and Richardson hitting the bench, the Colts are entering 2025, hoping to make the playoffs for the first time since 2021.
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