### Peyton Manning Reflects on the Legacy of Colts Owner Jim Irsay

When Peyton Manning left the Indianapolis Colts in 2012, he departed from a city transformed into a football haven, largely due to the influence of the team's owner, Jim Irsay. Irsay, who passed away at 65, had been a cornerstone of the Colts franchise since 1997. In an appearance on ESPN's "NFL Live," Manning fondly recalled how Irsay's commitment to excellence reshaped the sports culture of Indianapolis.

"In 1998, when I arrived, Indiana was synonymous with basketball and auto racing," Manning noted. "Football felt like the third sport, possibly even behind golf. Jim's dedication changed all that." Manning credits Irsay's strategic decisions, such as hiring Bill Polian, the architect behind the Buffalo Bills' success and the Carolina Panthers' foundation, alongside crucial drafts and re-signings like Edgerrin James and Marvin Harrison, for turning the Colts into a formidable team.

"Suddenly, the Colts were beating teams like Miami and Buffalo, winning their division. We became a football town right before your eyes," Manning said. "High school football flourished, and Colts jerseys flooded the stadium. It was all thanks to Jim's unwavering commitment to winning."

Recalling the early 2000s, Manning mentioned that the franchise once considered relocating due to conflicts over the stadium lease. The Colts, previously struggling with fan support and TV blackouts, faced uncertainty. "There were rumors about moving to Los Angeles," he said. "But Jim always wanted to stay in Indianapolis. He knew we had a good, entertaining team and pushed for a new stadium." This resulted in the construction of Lucas Oil Stadium, which opened a new chapter for the Colts and the city alike.

The Colts' victory in Super Bowl XLI after the 2006 season solidified their reputation, further boosted by the opening of Lucas Oil Stadium. This venue not only anchored the team's future but also cemented Indianapolis as a hub for major sporting events, including hosting its first Super Bowl in February 2012.

Despite the difficult decision to release Manning in 2012, his relationship with Irsay remained strong. "I'll always be grateful for the start he gave me," Manning admitted, highlighting Irsay's gesture of erecting a statue in his honor and flying him to Canton, Ohio, on the Colts' plane for his Hall of Fame induction. "He loved the Colts and the community. That's a legacy that will endure."

Manning's reflections paint a picture of Irsay as a passionate owner whose vision and commitment left an indelible mark on both the Colts and Indianapolis, forever altering the city's sporting landscape for the better.