Colts will honor Jim Irsay with jersey patch

INDIANAPOLIS – Jim Irsay’s memory and legacy will include his beloved Indianapolis Colts wearing a black jersey patch this season.

The team announced the gesture Tuesday.

The patch features Irsay’s initials and signature, along with the smiley face he routinely added whenever he signed items for fans. Irsay frequently signed footballs for fans with a $100 bill attached.

The black patch also includes seven grommets, which ties in the seven grommets that are on the Colts’ horseshoe logo.

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Along with announcing the black patch, the Colts changed the pictures on their social media accounts to the patch image.

Irsay, 65, died last Wednesday.

The outpouring of emotion from the community and NFL was immense and steady.

Irsay assumed ownership of the Colts following the 1997 death of his father, Robert.

Reggie Wayne, one of the most popular and prolific players in franchise history, summed up the reaction.

“This hurts soul,” he posted on social media.

Peyton Manning told FOX59/CBS4: “He would do anything for you. He loved his players and he was a great owner to play for.”