Goodbye NFL, hello politics

Jay Feely, a veteran NFL kicker and recent CBS Sports analyst, is stepping into the political arena. Just hours after announcing his departure from CBS via social media, Feely declared his candidacy for Arizona’s 5th Congressional District, aiming to replace Representative Andy Biggs, who is pursuing the governorship of Arizona in 2026.

Feely, a Trump supporter and former athlete, plans to bring his competitive mindset and experience under pressure into the political sphere, marking yet another intersection between sports and politics in the United States. His candidacy reflects the broader trend of athletes leveraging their public profiles into political roles.

From the NFL gridiron to Capitol Hill

Feely’s journey is far from typical. After playing four seasons at the University of Michigan, he initially worked as a financial advisor before chasing his NFL dreams. His professional football career spanned from 2001 to 2014, during which he suited up for teams like the Atlanta Falcons, New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, Arizona Cardinals, and Chicago Bears.

In recent years, Feely became a familiar face on CBS Sports, providing expert analysis and commentary. But his decision to leave broadcasting is rooted in a deeply personal response to national events.

Trump assassination attempt spurs Feely’s political ambitions

Feely cited the attempted assassination of Donald Trump in Pennsylvania as a pivotal moment that prompted his decision to run for office. According to ESPN, Trump and Representative Jim Jordan had encouraged Feely to consider a political role as early as 2022, but he declined, prioritizing his family while his children prepared for college.

Now, with his family settled, Feely feels the timing is right. He believes his background provides the qualifications necessary for political leadership: his tenure as a player representative in the NFL Players Association, his public speaking experience from CBS, and the high-pressure environment of NFL kicking.

“I’ve faced the most intense moments on the field,” Feely remarked. “That experience prepares you for the stress and responsibility that come with serving the public.”

Feely’s run for the 5th District—which includes parts of the Phoenix metropolitan area—signals a new chapter in his career, merging his sports background with political aspirations, much like former NFL players who have pursued office before him.

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