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Colts’ Irsay embraces opportunity to get to work

FILE - In this Sept. 15, 2014, file photo, Indianapolis Colts tight end Jack Doyle (84) dives in for a two-yard touchdown reception against Philadelphia Eagles outside linebacker Connor Barwin (98) during the first half of an NFL football game in Indianapolis. Indy's 0-2 start seems distant after four straight wins to give the defending division champs the inside track to another division crown. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy, File) FILE - In this Sept. 15, 2014, file photo, Indianapolis Colts tight end Jack Doyle (84) dives in for a two-yard touchdown reception against Philadelphia Eagles outside linebacker Connor Barwin (98) during the first half of an NFL football game in Indianapolis. Indy's 0-2 start seems distant after four straight wins to give the defending division champs the inside track to another division crown. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy, File)

By Associated Press October 15, 2014 1 min read

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Jim Irsay hated being away from his team for six games. He says he appreciates his ownership role even more now.

The Colts owner broke his silence Wednesday, taking questions from a small group of reporters for the first time since his league-imposed punishment ended Friday.

The 55-year-old Irsay was suspended after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor count of driving while intoxicated and acknowledging he was under the influence of the painkillers oxycodone and hydrocodone when he was arrested March 16.

Irsay had never missed a Colts game since his father, Robert, moved the team to Indy in 1984.

He says the hardest part was not being around as his team followed an 0-2 start with four straight wins.

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