In a time when political ambitions seem to come with job titles intact before one can even vote, former NFL kicker Jay Feely is kicking around a change. Transitioning from the gridiron to the airwaves, he now sets his sights on the political arena. Like many-American-made visionaries before him, Feely decided that being at the top of his game as a professional athlete wasn’t quite enough. His aspirations now stretch beyond the goalposts, aiming to score a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. With the mention of Andy Biggs moving up the political ladder to possibly run for governor, Feely sees an opportunity to fill the vacuum—a political vacuum cleaner, indeed.
Feely’s political journey was largely inspired by his connection with the ever-unpredictable Donald Trump. His friendship with Trump began back in 2016 during an era when being a Trump supporter was still new and fashionable. Contrary to the popular caricature of Trump seen in the media, Feely found a kindred spirit, one who was humorous, thoughtful, and cared about the American people. Their shared rounds of golf evidently sowed the seeds for Feely’s political aspirations. He wants to serve the public with the same principles he valued as a player and a broadcaster—values that put others before oneself. He dreams of bringing that brand of selflessness into politics, a field not exactly renowned for having an abundance of selfless figures.
Feely admits his love for politics has always been strong. This passion often guided him through his time in the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), where he stood up for fellow players, sometimes against powerful team owners. In a place where towering egos and profit margins often eclipse players’ concerns, Feely took the path less traveled. He tried to ensure that teammates made sound decisions, particularly regarding their futures. His actions back then raised a few eyebrows, much like his current political leanings do in certain media circles, fueling his belief in speaking his mind unabashedly. No mincing words here: Feely’s transparency could be as refreshing as a cold Gatorade on a hot summer field.
It is no secret that the political scene in Arizona waits for no one, least of all candidates who are unaware of the critical issues at hand. Feely, however, appears to be more than ready for the challenge. The border concerns, a hot button not only in Arizona but across the nation, weigh heavily on his agenda. If Biggs vacates his current position to try his hand at being governor, Feely anticipates an electrifying contest to fill that seat, with his competitive spirit willing to play the long game.
Trump and Jim Jordan’s nudge in Feely’s political direction—a classic team-up—further solidifies his resolve. Their encouragement, coupled with his previous opposition to some media stereotypes, lights his campaign trail like a well-thrown spiral illuminated by stadium lights. Feely’s story is one of an athlete choosing to step off the field and into the flames of political discourse. As he eyes running for office, ready to make sacrifices, only time will tell if his brand of grassroots engagement will resonate with the voters. In the interim, Arizonans may find his fresh but familiar face an interesting addition to the political landscape.
