INDIANAPOLIS – The Indianapolis Colts returned to work on Wednesday with their first full team practice of the spring, but their thoughts were divided between football and another unfortunate reality.
In their first availability to the media since the passing of team owner Jim Irsay last week, the Colts continued to reflect on their longtime leader.
Among those who offered vivid memories was former Colts receiver and current receivers coach Reggie Wayne, who said he implored his pupils to learn more about what the team has lost.
Wayne recalled a story from 2012 when he reached free agency and believed he might not return to Indianapolis because the parties couldn’t reach an agreement.I told the receivers, a lot of you guys don’t really know him, but he would have done anything for anybody,” Wayne said as he fought back tears. “He would have given the shirt off his back… I said, you have to go hard for him. He would have done that for you. So, that’s what I told them. I said, ‘You got homework to do, man. Read about him. Learn about him.’
Reggie Wayne, former receiver and current Colts receivers coach
“I don’t even think I’m going back, to be honest,” Wayne said, noting that the Chicago Bears and Kansas City Chiefs were looking to set up free agent visits with him.
But, Wayne said, “Suddenly, my phone rang”.
It was Irsay on the other end, and he insisted that he and Wayne make a deal at that very moment because the owner didn’t want to lose his star receiver.“No, you are not going to take that trip,” Wayne cited to Irsay.
Wayne signed for just over $17 million over three seasons, but Irsay later told him: “You could have asked for 30 million. I would have given it to you,” Wayne said.
Other memories included defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, who last season suffered a painful ankle sprain that sent him to the injured reserve, saying that Irsay granted his request to travel to Panama to receive stem cell treatment to accelerate his recovery. Irsay provided his private plane for the trip.
Irsay’s passion left an indelible mark, players said, whether in a draft-day phone call or in a post-game locker room, where he was a constant and dynamic presence.There wasn’t even a flinch,” Buckner said. “… It’s the little things like that. He’s willing to do whatever it takes for the organization, for those around him.
DeForest Buckner, defensive tackle
“I still remember the day he called me [during the draft],” said defensive lineman Tyquan Lewis. “I was like, ‘This guy is really excited.’ … And right after the games, whether we won or lost, Jim was always with us.
That was what I loved most about Jim. It was always the players, the team, the organization, the family.
Irsay will be remembered during a private tribute on Monday in Indianapolis. The team said on Wednesday that they are preparing plans for a public tribute with details yet to come. The team will also wear a patch on their jersey this season with Irsay’s initials.
