**Reggie Wayne Pays Emotional Tribute to Late Colts Owner Jim Irsay**

The recent passing of Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has triggered an outpouring of tributes, with one of the most heartfelt coming from former Colts receiver and current receivers coach Reggie Wayne. Known for his passionate demeanor, Wayne shared his grief and admiration when addressing reporters on Wednesday.

During his conversation, Wayne emphasized Irsay's generous spirit. "I told the receivers, a lot of y'all don't really know him but he would've done anything for anybody," Wayne recounted, as reported by Stephen Holder of ESPN.com. "He would've gave the clothes off his back… I said, y'all got to push your asses for him. He would've done that for y'all. So, that's what I told them. I said, 'Y'all got homework to do, man. Read about him. Learn about him.'"

In an illustrative anecdote, Wayne reminisced about an incident in 2012 when he was a free agent and considering offers from the Chicago Bears and Kansas City Chiefs. Just as he was planning visits with these teams, an unexpected call from Irsay changed everything. "I don't even think I'm coming back, to be honest with you," Wayne admitted. However, Irsay was resolute: "'No, you're not taking that trip,'" he told Wayne.

Wayne eventually re-signed with the Colts on a three-year deal worth $17 million. Reflecting on this moment, Wayne shared Irsay's sentiment: "'You could've asked for $30 million. I would've gave it to you.'"

Selected in the first round of the 2001 draft, Wayne spent three more seasons with Indianapolis and was later inducted into the Colts' Ring of Honor by Irsay. In 2022, he returned to the organization as the receivers coach, continuing his long-standing affiliation with the team and honoring the legacy of a man who profoundly impacted his career.