What if I told you that a beloved NFL owner battled addiction in secret, even as he became a symbol of hope and recovery for many? Jim Irsay, the late owner of the Indianapolis Colts, faced not just the pressures of the football world but also a private struggle with substance abuse that ultimately led to his untimely death.

According to a shocking report by The Washington Post, Irsay, who passed away in May at the age of 65, hid a relapse from both the public and those closest to him. He was open about his history with addiction, but in the final two years of his life, he succumbed to the very demons he had so bravely fought before.

Irsay’s battle took a dark turn as he was prescribed ketamine by a private doctor, who later signed his death certificate stating the cause was cardiac arrest. However, alarming details have since emerged, raising questions about the treatment he received. It has been alleged that Irsay was prescribed over 200 opioid pills by addiction specialist Harry Haroutunian, a doctor residing at the Beverly Hills Hotel, where Irsay ultimately died.

Before his death, Irsay faced two overdose incidents in December 2023, first at his home in Indianapolis and later at a rental property in Miami. These moments of crisis were reportedly compounded by Irsay firing a nurse who was concerned about his pill consumption, highlighting a troubling pattern of secrecy and denial.

Even when authorities suspected an overdose in January 2024, Irsay and the Colts publicly denied it, attributing his health issues instead to a “severe respiratory illness.” A Colts executive's 911 call revealed a failure to mention pills or drugs, suggesting an effort to shield Irsay from scrutiny.

Ex-Colts employees allege that senior executives, including COO Pete Ward and general counsel Dan Emerson, worked together to keep Irsay’s struggles hidden. In a statement, Ward emphasized his professionalism and respect for Irsay's privacy, while Emerson echoed his wish for Irsay to rest in peace, despite the mounting evidence of their involvement in the cover-up.

As Irsay’s health deteriorated, his treatments escalated, including ketamine injections, which were becoming increasingly controversial. Haroutunian, the addiction specialist, expressed his dedication to caring for Irsay, claiming he treated him like a brother. Yet, in the wake of Irsay's death, he refrained from commenting on the details of the report.

Upon Irsay’s death, his three daughters took charged of the Colts and released a heartfelt statement honoring their father’s legacy. They mentioned his openness about addiction and mental health, emphasizing their focus on philanthropy and advocacy for mental health awareness. They also reiterated Irsay’s belief in being an example for others, stating, “We can either be an example through death, or an example through living.”

In 2020, Irsay launched the “Kicking The Stigma” campaign, aimed at raising awareness about mental health issues, an initiative he remained passionate about until his last days. He once stated, “You’re going to be an example one way or another,” reflecting his commitment to living authentically amidst his struggles.

This story is a powerful reminder of the complexities surrounding addiction, the importance of transparency in health matters, and the legacies we leave behind.