In their first press conference since stepping into their new ownership roles following the recent passing of their father, Jim Irsay, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson spoke about the future of the Colts—a franchise that remains firmly a family enterprise.
While Jim Irsay didn’t live to see this transition completed, it was always his vision for the team to stay within the family—making Tuesday’s moment both meaningful and bittersweet for the Irsay daughters, who have been gradually preparing for this role for years.
Among the insights they shared, one key point stood out: the Irsays still have strong faith in longtime general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen to lead the Colts back to success. However, they were also candid in acknowledging that the team’s recent performance has fallen short of the high standards that once defined the franchise (via ESPN’s Stephen Holder).
There was no firm ‘make-or-break’ ultimatum from ownership, but it’s hard to ignore the sense of urgency surrounding the Colts. Realistically, failing to make the playoffs could put the futures of GM Chris Ballard, head coach Shane Steichen, and even 23-year-old quarterback Anthony Richardson in question—as the Irsay daughters may opt to make sweeping changes and bring in a new leadership core.
Still, Carlie Irsay-Gordon offered an early vote of confidence in Richardson, who’s currently rehabbing his surgically repaired throwing shoulder after experiencing some soreness during OTAs. It’s been a turbulent start to his pro career, but the Colts appear committed—for now.
Unlike their father, who was a singular and often outspoken presence during his long tenure as Colts owner, the Irsay daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—are emerging as more of a collaborative, three-headed leadership group. While Jim Irsay had been the face of the franchise for decades, his daughters had already become increasingly involved in team decisions in recent years due to his declining health.
The succession plan had long been in place, though their father’s untimely passing likely accelerated the transition. Now officially at the helm, the sisters seem intent on continuing the thoughtful and community-focused stewardship their family has long provided to both the city of Indianapolis and the state of Indiana.
That said, fans should expect a different tone going forward—marked by more calculated public messaging and likely fewer of the whimsical and eccentric moments that made Jim Irsay such a uniquely beloved figure. His ‘Willy Wonka’ persona endeared him to many, but his daughters seem set to lead with a more measured, professional approach.
Still, their focus is clear: restoring the Colts to the competitive, winning franchise it once was—on their terms, and in their own way.