The Indianapolis Colts organization and fan base were shocked by the passing of owner Jim Irsay on Wednesday night, and reactions to the news began pouring in immediately.
There might be no more emotional reaction to the news than the words offered up from former Colts quarterback and Hall of Famer Peyton Manning.
"I am heartbroken to hear about Jim Irsay's passing. He was an incredibly generous and passionate owner and I will always be indebted to him for giving me my start in the NFL," Manning wrote via his Instagram.
Peyton Manning recognizes the impact Jim Irsay had on not only himself, but many others
"His love for the Colts and the city of Indy was unmatched. His impact on the players who played for him will not be forgotten," Manning went on.
"My thoughts and prayer are with his family and everyone within the Colts community.
"He will be missed. Jim, rest in peace my friend."
There are few individuals whose life has been as devoted to the game of football as Irsay. After having been a Colts ball boy long ago, Irsay was able to gain knowledge of every spot within the organization before he ultimately became owner.
One of his best moves, of course, was selecting Manning, out of Tennessee, first overall in the 1998 NFL Draft.
The legendary quarterback would go on to help Irsay and the Colts win Super Bowl XLI over the Chicago Bears in an unforgettable season.
Manning gave Irsay plenty of iconic moments over the years, many of which included duels between he and another all-time great, Tom Brady, who also reacted to the passing of Irsay with a comment on Manning's Instagram post.