The Indianapolis Colts are off to a rough start, and now their owner is under fire for her behavior during games. Carlie Irsay-Gordon, who took over the franchise after the passing of her father, Jim Irsay, has been a visible presence on the sideline during the team's recent struggles. But not everyone thinks that's a good thing.
During Sunday night's overtime loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, Irsay-Gordon was seen pacing the sideline as the Colts fell to 33-30, dropping to 0-2 on the season. The loss extended Indianapolis's losing streak to nine games, and the frustration is palpable. But ESPN reporter Michele Steele took to social media to question whether the owner's sideline antics are helpful, writing, "Still don't understand how the owner of the team hovering up and down the sideline helps in critical situations."
Now, former Green Bay Packers vice president Andrew Brandt is echoing that sentiment. Brandt, who spent years in NFL front offices, agrees that Irsay-Gordon's presence is a distraction to players and coaches. "Answer: It does not," he wrote on X, responding to Steele's tweet.
Irsay-Gordon, however, sees it differently. In an interview with the Colts' official website in June, she explained that being on the sideline and listening to the team's headsets helps her evaluate personnel and understand the game better. "I think one of the things that being on the headset has really helped me learn is... it's such a complex organism of football team and how it operates," she said. She also believes it helps her make better decisions about hiring coaches and general managers, saying, "It helps you make a less expensive mistake potentially."
But the question remains: does her presence on the sideline actually help or hurt the team during games? Critics argue that an owner hovering around can be a distraction, especially in high-pressure moments. Brandt, who has been vocal about the criticism Irsay-Gordon has faced, suggests that owners should trust their football people and stay out of the way.
This isn't the first time an owner's sideline behavior has raised eyebrows. In recent years, several NFL owners have been scrutinized for their involvement in game-day operations. But Irsay-Gordon's approach is unique in that she actively listens to the team's communication channels, which some see as overstepping.
As the Colts continue to struggle, the debate over Irsay-Gordon's role is likely to intensify. Fans and analysts alike are questioning whether her hands-on approach is part of the problem or a potential solution. For now, the Colts are focused on turning their season around, but the spotlight on their owner isn't going away anytime soon.
Meanwhile, the Chiefs' victory was highlighted by Travis Kelce's flashy pregame outfit, which drew attention away from the field. But for the Colts, the focus remains on their 0-2 start and the questions surrounding their owner's sideline presence.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Indianapolis to see if Irsay-Gordon adjusts her approach or doubles down on her belief that being close to the action is essential. For now, the debate rages on.
