Longtime NFL Kicker Makes It Official: He’s Running for Congress as a Republican
Former NFL kicker Jay Feely has officially announced his candidacy for Congress as a Republican in Arizona’s 5th Congressional District. The 48-year-old, who played for teams including the Arizona Cardinals and New York Jets during his 14-season career, expressed excitement about this new chapter in his life, citing a calling to public service and faith as motivations. Following months of speculation and a filed statement of interest with the Arizona secretary of state, Feely is entering the race due to the incumbent Rep.Andy Biggs’ decision to pursue the governorship.He highlighted a personal resolve to step into politics influenced by important events, including an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.Feely joins a growing list of athletes who have transitioned to political roles, particularly within the Republican Party, and hopes his community involvement will bolster his candidacy in the upcoming election.
The transfer portal from the sports arena to the political arena just got a little more crowded.
Former longtime NFL kicker Jay Feely officially announced on April 22 that he will run for Congress as a Republican in Arizona’s 5th Congressional district, per CBS Sports.
Feely, who played 14 seasons in the NFL with teams like the Arizona Cardinals and New York Jets, seemed eager to get this new venture started.
“I’m excited about this next chapter of my life,” Feely told ESPN.
The 48-year-old also expressed a sense of duty — and faith.
“I think that I feel God’s calling pressing me into service, and that’s really what I believe it is, the civil service,” Feely said.
This announcement follows months of speculation, as Feely had been seriously considering a congressional run as a Republican, according to earlier reports.
Feely also filed a statement of interest with the Arizona secretary of state, a required step before collecting signatures to get on the ballot.
The seat Feely is vying for is opening up due to Rep. Andy Biggs’ gubernatorial aspirations, as Biggs announced his candidacy for Arizona governor in 2026, per The Hill.
According to ESPN, his decision to run was influenced by the July 2024 assassination attempt on President Donald Trump, which Feely said motivated him to step into the political arena.
Feely joins a notable list of athletes who have transitioned into politics, notably for the Republican Party.
Rep. Jim Jordan, a former NCAA champion wrestler, went from the mat to Congress, representing Ohio and becoming a prominent GOP voice.
Glenn Jacobs, better known as WWE’s Kane, moved from professional wrestling to become the mayor of Knox County, Tennessee, as a Republican.
Sen. Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma, a former MMA fighter, brought his competitive spirit to Congress, aligning with GOP values.
Arnold Schwarzenegger, a bodybuilding legend, served as California’s governor from 2003 to 2011, another high-profile Republican from the sports world.
Jim Tressel, a celebrated football coach, transitioned into politics as Ohio’s lieutenant governor.
Sen. Tommy Tuberville, also a former college football coach, now represents Alabama.
Feely’s name recognition and community involvement may give him an edge in the race as he steps into a new arena to serve Arizona.
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