Jim Irsay has died at the age of 65. © GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / JUSTIN CASTERLINE

FBI investigates after death of NFL club owner

According to a report in the "Washington Post", the FBI has launched an investigation into the death of NFL club owner Jim Irsay.

23 January 2026

From: det

The investigation will focus on the cause of death of Irsay, who led the Indianapolis Colts for decades and died in May at the age of 65. The role of his attending physician will also be examined. According to the report, the FBI is gathering information related to legal and illegal painkillers, as well as Irsay's relationship with an addiction specialist.

Unlike many other team owners in the NFL, Irsay was an extroverted individual who spoke publicly about addiction and alcohol abuse and advocated for mental health. He had officially overcome his painkiller addiction, according to the Washington Post However, there have reportedly been relapses in recent years. Irsay is said to have been prescribed opium pills and ketamine by his doctor.

Colts issue statement

When his death was announced in May, statements from the Indianapolis Colts and the NFL said Irsay died peacefully in his sleep. According to information from [source missing], the death certificate was issued by [source missing]. Washington Post His doctor issued the certificate. The Colts are not currently the subject of the investigation and have not received any subpoenas or search warrants, the team told the US newspaper.