In a stunning development that has electrified the NFL community, the Indianapolis Colts have announced that their former legendary quarterback, Peyton Manning, is returning to the franchise—not to take snaps under center, but as a co-owner. The announcement, made just minutes ago by the Colts organization and team owner Jim Irsay’s family, marks a historic moment for the franchise and its passionate fanbase.
Peyton Manning, widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, spent 14 illustrious seasons with the Colts from 1998 to 2011. Drafted first overall out of the University of Tennessee, Manning transformed the Colts into a perennial powerhouse, leading the team to two Super Bowl appearances and a victory in Super Bowl XLI. His record-breaking career includes multiple NFL MVP awards, countless franchise records, and a legacy that continues to loom large over Indianapolis.
The news of Manning’s return as a co-owner comes as part of a broader transition for the Colts following the passing of longtime owner Jim Irsay earlier this year. Irsay’s daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—shared a joint statement, calling Manning’s involvement “a generational moment” for the franchise. “Peyton Manning is not just a legend on the field but a leader who embodies the spirit of the Colts,” the statement read. “His return as a co-owner ensures that our father’s vision for this team will continue to thrive.”[](https://dailytoday.us/blog/breaking-news-indianapolis-colts-legend-peyton-manning-returns-as-co-owner-in-a-monumental-announcement-indianapolis-colts-owner-jim-irsay-family-has-officially-declared-that-peyton-manning-the-leg/)
Manning’s new role will see him take a significant stake in the franchise, reportedly worth over $100 million, cementing his lifelong connection to the team that launched his Hall of Fame career. While details of his ownership responsibilities are still emerging, sources indicate that Manning will play an active role in strategic decisions, community engagement, and preserving the Colts’ storied legacy.[](https://www.upchelsea.com/2025/05/26/bringing-hope-to-the-team-legend-peyton-manning-signs-a-life-time-contracts-with-the-indianapolis-colts-worth-over/)
“I’m honored to return to the Indianapolis Colts in this new capacity,” Manning said in a press conference at the Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center. “This city and this team mean the world to me. I look forward to working with the Irsay family and the entire organization to build on our tradition and bring more championships to Indianapolis.”[](https://www.colts.com/video/peyton-manning-returns-to-indy-full-press-conf-16944072)
The announcement has sparked a wave of excitement among Colts fans, who have long revered Manning for his on-field brilliance and off-field leadership. Social media platforms, including X, are buzzing with reactions, with fans expressing nostalgia for the Manning era and optimism for the future. One user posted, “Peyton back with the Colts as an owner? This is the best news for Indy fans in years!”
Manning’s return comes at a pivotal time for the Colts, who have struggled to recapture their past glory since his departure in 2011. During a recent “Night of Champions” event hosted by Manning’s company, Omaha Productions, the former quarterback emphasized the importance of the current Colts roster forging its own identity. “There’s a tradition here,” Manning said. “But you have to be who you are. My advice to the 2025 Colts is to create your own legacy.”[](https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2025/02/24/peyton-manning-indianapolis-current-colts/80085055007/)
In addition to his new role with the Colts, Manning remains active in the sports world. He recently joined the ownership group of a new women’s soccer team in Denver, part of the NWSL, and continues to produce content through Omaha Productions, including the popular “ManningCast” on ESPN. However, his deep ties to Indianapolis—where he still receives a hero’s welcome at every appearance—made this ownership opportunity a natural fit.[](https://atozsports.com/nfl/indianapolis-colts-news/colts-peyton-manning-recent-sports-venture-adds-fuel-to-fire-that-has-been-building-for-a-while-now/)[](https://athlonsports.com/nfl/indianapolis-colts/nfl-legend-peyton-manning-makes-disappointing-announcement-bill-belichick)
As the Colts prepare for the 2025 season, with a dedication to honor Jim Irsay’s legacy and a new era under Manning’s co-ownership, the franchise appears poised for a resurgence. Fans are already dreaming of a return to the playoffs and, perhaps, another Super Bowl run with Manning’s influence guiding the way.
For now, Indianapolis celebrates the return of its favorite son, whose journey from quarterback to co-owner ensures that the horseshoe will remain a symbol of excellence for years to come.
