Baltimore Ravens Coach Shares Emotional Message After Jim Irsay’s Death

In the wake of Jim Irsay’s passing, the Baltimore Ravens’ head coach delivered an emotional and heartfelt message that resonated deeply with players, staff, fans, and the entire NFL community. Recognizing Irsay’s profound impact on the league, his unwavering support for the Ravens, and his enduring legacy as a passionate owner and visionary leader, the coach expressed grief, gratitude, and admiration in a tone that reflected both personal respect and collective mourning. The message highlighted Irsay’s pioneering spirit, his dedication to the game, and the indelible mark he left on the sport of football, emphasizing how his leadership helped shape the franchise’s identity and fostered a culture of perseverance, innovation, and community engagement. The coach also reflected on the importance of honoring Irsay’s memory by continuing to uphold his values, inspiring future generations, and carrying forward the legacy of excellence that he championed. As the team gathered in a moment of silence and reflection, this message served as a powerful tribute, uniting everyone in shared grief and commitment to keep Irsay’s spirit alive within the fabric of the Ravens and the NFL at large.

The death of Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay at 65 years old on Wednesday hit hard across the NFL, but within int the Baltimore Ravens organization, one coach definitely took it the hardest.

Senior secondary coach Chuck Pagano, who came out of retirement this offseason to re-join John Harbaugh’s staff, shared an emotional message in light of Irsay’s passing early Thursday morning. Pagano, 65, previously served as the Colts’ head coach from 2012-17.

“I’m heartbroken over the passing of Jim Irsay,” Pagano wrote. “NOBODY loved his family, his team and his community more than Jim!! He gave me the opportunity of a lifetime and stood by me in my darkest hour! His generosity and kindness are unmatched. I’m forever grateful. Love you, Boss. RIP.”

Pagano finished his Colts tenure with a 53-43 regular season record over six seasons, also earning three playoff appearances, two AFC South titles and an AFC Championship Game appearance in 2014.

However, Pagano’s time in Indianapolis is most remembered for what happened off the field. In his first season with the Colts in 2012, he was diagnosed with leukemia and took an indefinite leave of absence as he underwent treatment. After his cancer went into remission, more than two dozen Colts players shaved their heads to show their support.

“We haven’t been around each other very long,” said Pat McAfee, then-Colts punter and current sports media titan. “Our team was forced after all the changes to really build camaraderie and Chuck was that steadying piece. He motivated everybody. He was the guy that was pushing everything. We have grown to have a very close relationship with him in a short period of time.

“We’re a family and the coach is almost like a father figure. When something happens, you want to rally behind him.”

The Colts said in their statement announcing Irsay’s passing that some of his fondest memories “came from his youth working training camps in Baltimore and growing relationships with players, coaches and staff whom he considered extended family.” He worked in the Colts’ personnel department during their final two years in Baltimore.

In the somber setting following the news of Jim Irsay’s passing, our team, our organization, and the entire NFL community are united in grief and gratitude. Jim was more than just an owner; he was a visionary who believed in the transformative power of football, both on and off the field. His unwavering passion for the game, his relentless dedication to his team, and his commitment to making a difference in the lives of others set a standard for all of us to aspire to. As we stand here today, we remember Jim not only for his accomplishments and his leadership but also for his kindness, his integrity, and his unwavering belief in the potential of every individual. His legacy extends beyond the victories and the championships; it lies in the way he inspired those around him to dream bigger, work harder, and never lose sight of the importance of community and family. We are honored to have known him, to have been supported by him, and to carry forward his vision. In these difficult times, let us find strength in his memory, let us honor his legacy through our actions, and let us continue to pursue excellence in every game, every practice, and every community effort, just as Jim would have wanted. Today, we mourn, we reflect, and we promise to keep his spirit alive — a testament to a man who truly changed the course of football history.