Jim Irsay, the owner of the Indianapolis Colts, has countered claims from a police report suggesting he experienced an overdose in December, where he was reportedly found in a severe state, unresponsive and struggling to breathe.
In a statement in February, Irsay mentioned he was recuperating from a ‘severe respiratory illness,’ appreciating the “messages of love and support” following an announcement that he was receiving medical care. On December 8, Indiana police were called to his residence around 4:30 AM after he was discovered unconscious with a blue complexion and labored breathing.
As reported by TMZ, upon their arrival, authorities noted Irsay had constricted pupils. The incident was initially described as an ‘overdose’ or ‘overdose/poisoning’ by the police, although it was unclear what substances, if any, Irsay had ingested before they arrived.
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Rejecting these claims, Irsay clarified to Fox59:
“It wasn’t an overdose.” He expressed frustration over how quickly assumptions are made due to his past, stating, “I don’t know why when you have your name in the paper in the past, people throw that out there quickly. I don’t pay attention to it all that much, but I don’t think it’s fair.”
Irsay revealed the health scare was related to a leg injury that ultimately required ‘major’ surgery for a back and leg problem, which necessitated a prolonged hospital stay. He highlighted his history of multiple surgeries, emphasizing the orthopedic nature of his medical issues, which are often overlooked in favor of more sensational explanations like overdose or addiction.
“It’s unfortunate because [the police] really don’t have the information in that speed of time when you’re checking [someone] into the hospital and it’s an overdose or it’s this or that… the bottom line was the leg needed to be taken care of immediately,” Irsay added.
With the NFL draft approaching, where the Colts hold the 15th pick, Irsay reassured fans about his health and leadership. “I’m in good shape and… I have my hands on the reins in a strong way,” he affirmed. “I see a Colts team coming back with prime ammo. It’s really exciting to see what can be done this year.”
