In a surprising move, Jay Feely, the former NFL placekicker with a 13-season career, has set his sights on a new challenge: politics.
The 48-year-old sports icon has officially thrown his hat in the ring for Arizona’s 5th Congressional District, currently vacant following Rep. Andy Biggs’ (R-AZ) decision to pursue the governor’s office.
With Arizona’s changing political landscape, Feely’s candidacy has the potential to shake up the 2025 GOP primary.
Feely made his campaign announcement through a simple post on social media.
“I’m excited to announce my candidacy for U.S. Congress in Arizona’s 5th Congressional District. I look forward to earning your vote,” he wrote.
His entry into the race has drawn attention, especially as the district has traditionally been a Republican stronghold since the Tea Party movement took root in 2010, according to Trending Politics.
Before officially announcing, Feely consulted with Biggs, who had already made plans to run for governor.
“We had breakfast, and I just said, ‘What are your intentions?’” Feely recalled, noting Biggs’ encouragement. “He said, ‘I’m all in and running for governor,’ and that led me to consider running for his seat.”
With this green light from Biggs, Feely made his final decision to move forward with his campaign.
While Feely’s career on the football field earned him recognition as one of the NFL’s most reliable kickers, his pivot to politics comes as a logical next step.
After retiring in 2014, Feely became a well-known figure in sports broadcasting, working as an analyst for CBS Sports Network.
His visibility within the sports world, particularly in Arizona, has made him a household name in the district, where he and his family have deep roots.
Feely’s decision to run is deeply personal.
“It was a big decision for my entire family,” he said, according to ABC15. “My wife and I both feel that this is the right decision for us.”
The Feely family, who resides in Arizona, is already familiar with the political landscape. Their eldest son, Jace, follows in his father’s footsteps as a kicker at the University of Colorado, further solidifying the family’s connection to sports.
In addition to his football legacy, Feely has long been a staunch supporter of President Donald Trump, which could help him appeal to Arizona’s conservative base.
Though he has yet to secure Trump’s formal endorsement, Feely’s past support for the president is well-known, and the two have shared moments on social media.
Whether Trump decides to back Feely in the primary remains to be seen, but the prospect of this endorsement could play a pivotal role in the race, TP notes.
Feely’s path to victory is not without competition. Travis Grantham, a former state representative, is also vying for the Republican nomination in Arizona’s 5th District.
With the district having shifted slightly toward Joe Biden in the 2020 election, the GOP’s hold on the seat could face challenges in 2025, but Feely’s name recognition and strong ties to Arizona may give him an edge in the upcoming battle.
As Feely prepares for the 2025 GOP primary, Arizona’s 5th District is drawing increased attention on the national stage.
With Feely’s sports background, political endorsements, and family connections, the race is shaping up to be a competitive contest for this key congressional seat.
