Jay Feely, a name synonymous with precision on the football field, has taken a dramatic step into the political arena. On April 22, 2025, the former NFL kicker announced his candidacy for Arizona’s Fifth Congressional District, a decision spurred by the July 2024 assassination attempt on President Donald Trump. This pivotal moment, Feely revealed, ignited his desire to serve the nation in a new way. After a 14-year NFL career and a decade as a CBS Sports broadcaster, Feely’s shift to politics is capturing attention, blending his athletic discipline with a passion for public service. Let’s dive into the latest developments surrounding this compelling journey.
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Jay Feely’s Congressional Run: A Response to Crisis
The July 2024 assassination attempt on Trump in Pennsylvania was a turning point for Feely. He told Fox News Digital that the event crystallized his long-standing interest in politics, pushing him to act. Feely, 48, had been approached by Trump and Rep. Jim Jordan in 2022 to run for Congress but declined due to family commitments. Now, with his children older, he’s ready to tackle Arizona’s Fifth District, a solidly Republican seat vacated by Rep. Andy Biggs, who is running for governor. Feely formally filed his statement of interest with the Arizona secretary of state, marking the start of his campaign to collect signatures for the 2026 midterm ballot. His platform emphasizes economic growth and securing the southern border, issues he believes resonate deeply with Arizonans.
From Field Goals to Policy Goals
Feely’s transition from NFL kicker to congressional candidate is rooted in his diverse experiences. During his 14-year career, he played for teams like the Arizona Cardinals and New York Jets, earning over $17.5 million. His role as an NFL Players Association representative gave him a taste of advocacy, fighting for players’ insurance rights. This background, coupled with the high-pressure stakes of kicking, equips him for the political arena, he argues. Feely’s decade at CBS Sports, where he pioneered the special teams analyst role, further honed his ability to communicate complex ideas clearly—a skill he plans to leverage in Congress.
| Jay Feely’s Career Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| NFL Career | 14 years, 82.6% field goal accuracy |
| Teams Played For | Cardinals, Jets, Giants, Falcons, Dolphins, Bears |
| Broadcasting | CBS Sports analyst (2015–2025) |
| Political Move | Running for Arizona’s Fifth District (2026) |
Jay Feely’s Political Motivations and Support
Feely’s decision wasn’t made in isolation. About a month ago, he and his wife, Rebecca, met with congressional Republicans in Washington, D.C., to explore the realities of political life. Her support was crucial, Feely noted, as was the encouragement from Trump, with whom he’s played golf at Mar-a-Lago and Bedminster. Posts on X reflect growing excitement, with users like
@BarryMarkson1 noting Feely’s likely Trump endorsement as a boost in the Republican primary. Rep. Jim Jordan’s endorsement, announced on April 23, 2025, further strengthens Feely’s campaign, with the congressman praising him as a “fearless conservative.” Feely’s social media reflects gratitude for his CBS tenure but signals a clear shift: he’s ready to fight for “freedoms and results” in Arizona’s East Valley.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Arizona’s Fifth District, encompassing Queen Creek, Gilbert, and Chandler, is a Republican stronghold—Trump won it by 20 points in 2024. Yet, Feely faces a competitive GOP primary, with State Rep. Travis Grantham already in the race. Feely positions himself as a “uniter,” drawing on his NFL leadership to bridge divides. His campaign includes a former Trump staffer, signaling strategic alignment with the MAGA movement. However, Feely must navigate a polarized political landscape, where issues like immigration dominate. He’s vocal about the need for border security, criticizing Democrats for inaction. The Cook Political Report ranks the district as solidly Republican, giving Feely a strong shot if he secures the nomination.
Why Jay Feely’s Run Matters
Feely’s story is more than a celebrity career pivot—it’s a reflection of how personal conviction can drive change. The Trump assassination attempt, which left one dead and others injured, shook Feely’s sense of purpose. He felt his broadcasting role, while fulfilling, lacked the impact he craved. “I wanted a platform to have a positive impact,” he told ESPN. His move joins a trend of athletes entering politics, from Tommy Tuberville to Herschel Walker, but Feely’s focus on unity and practical solutions sets him apart. As he campaigns, his ability to connect with voters, honed through years of media work, will be key. Will his NFL grit translate to congressional wins? Arizona’s voters will decide.
Engaging Arizona and Beyond
Feely’s campaign is already sparking conversation. On X, supporters like @cameron_arcand shared his first congressional interview, while @RBuckeyeOSUFan noted his strong position in a Trump-friendly district. Feely’s challenge is to maintain momentum through the primary, where his name recognition and endorsements could give him an edge. His story resonates because it’s relatable: a man driven by a moment of crisis to step up for his community. As he collects signatures and refines his message, Feely’s journey from the NFL to Capitol Hill promises to keep us engaged. Whether you’re a football fan or a political junkie, Jay Feely’s run is one to watch.