Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank has spoken about Colts owner Jim Irsay, who died in his sleep on Wednesday.
In 2005, the Atlanta Falcons played the Indianapolis Colts in Tokyo, Japan, in a game known as the "American Bowl." Blank and Irsay spent time together off the field, and Irsay gave Arthur Blank firsthand knowledge of just how much Irsay cared for his players and was respected by staff, family, friends, etc.
"I got to know Jim and his family well early in my ownership when our teams played in the American Bowl in Japan in 2005," Blank said Wednesday in a release. "And spending that quality time with him, I saw firsthand how much he cared about his players, staff, and family."
"The Colts and Irsay family have lost a passionate soul in Jim Irsay, and the NFL has lost a great owner who always spoke from his heart on what he believed to be the right thing for the league and the game. He was raised in our game, and I always appreciated his commitment to it and truly enjoyed serving on various committees with him," Blank would say.
"I also have deep respect and admiration for how he cared for others and tried to do his part to help, especially those who struggle with mental health issues."
Blank would also say, "On behalf of the Atlanta Falcons, I extend our deepest condolences to Jim’s family and friends and Colts fans everywhere. Jim leaves a prominent legacy, and he will be deeply missed."
Jim Irsay died in his sleep Wednesday, leaving behind a resume with a 257-194-1 record. Irsay also received a Super Bowl ring and has impacted players, coaches, staff, family, and friends during his 65 years, leaving a lasting legacy.
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