INDIANAPOLIS – Carlie Irsay-Gordon, the new principal owner and CEO of the [Indianapolis Colts](nfl/team/_/name/ind/indianapolis-colts), began a new era for the team with a statement that made her commitment clear. During a joint press conference with her sisters, Irsay-Gordon emphasized the seriousness with which they take the management of the team, following the death of her father, Jim Irsay. “This is our business and we take it very seriously,” said Irsay-Gordon. She acknowledged the need for improvements in the team, but assured that they will focus on continuing the legacy of success.
The Future of the Team in Sight
When asked about General Manager Chris Ballard and Coach Shane Steichen, Irsay-Gordon sent a clear message about expectations. “Chris and Shane know there are things they need to fix,” she said. “We have a standard here and it hasn’t been good enough. Winning is great, but we are committed to being the best, and if we are the best, we will win games. We trust that Chris and Shane are capable of achieving this.”
The Colts have failed to qualify for the playoffs in the last four seasons and haven’t won the AFC South division since 2014. Irsay-Gordon did not want to confirm whether the futures of Ballard and Steichen are linked, but he highlighted that they maintain a good working relationship. Jim Irsay’s daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson, have been involved in various roles within the franchise for years. According to Jackson, they participated in most of the organization’s important decisions, a preparation their father designed to ensure a smooth transition.
