Quote:
Originally Posted by rcubed
I think from outside the organization, irsay is seen as kind of a nut. Hippy music lover who happens to own a team. I am not sure most realize how he grew up inside the organization and has held positions from waterboy to gm to owner. Plus I think that drug bust really hurt is rep.
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I'm assuming that the standard should be the overall impact of the owner on the success of the organization. With that yardstick, and whatever Irsay's personal demons and shortcomings might be (and if this was an issue, how could anyone ever consider Kraft no 1?), the guy plays the role of an owner very, very well.
He stays out of the way and doesn't pretend to be the GM, communicates well, connects with the fans, is generous, and is loyal to a fault. That last one could also be a seen as a shortcoming, but I really don't think so. While his loyalty might lead to a few Grigsons or Paganos sticking around a bit longer than they should, it also signals to others that they'll get more than a fair shake in Indy, and ultimately I think that pays off with better candidates and players in the long run. Look how many former Colts want to remain connected to the organization.