Peyton Manning Says Jim Irsay '1 of a Kind,' Will 'Always Be Indebted' to Colts Owner

NFL legend Peyton Manning discussed the legacy of late Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay.

"Look, he was one of a kind," Manning said during a Thursday appearance on NFL Live (3:30 mark). "We all know him. Anybody that's gotten to meet him, he was unique. But he loved the Colts, he loved the players that played for him and I'll always be indebted to him for giving me my chance in the NFL."

Irsay died Wednesday at the age of 65.

Manning previously offered his condolences in an Instagram post.

"I am heartbroken to hear about Jim Irsay’s passing," Manning wrote in the caption. "He was an incredibly generous and passionate owner and I will always be indebted to him for giving me my start in the NFL. 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. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and everyone in the Colts community. He will be missed. Jim, rest in peace my friend, #18."

The quarterback opened his career with the Colts after the team selected him with the No. 1 overall pick in the 1998 NFL draft.

He blossomed into one of the league's top signal-callers throughout his time with Indianapolis, winning four MVP awards and earning a Super Bowl title during the 2006 season.

Manning completed 64.9 percent of his throws for 54,828 yards and 399 touchdowns compared to 198 interceptions in 208 career starts with the Colts. He owned a record of 141-67 as a starter over that span.

Manning reflected on his shared Colts tenure with Irsay on Thursday.