Former NFL kicker Jay Feely is seeking a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, running as a Republican candidate for Arizona's first Congressional District. His campaign has attracted financial backing from several prominent figures in the sports world, including NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley.
According to Federal Election Commission records, Goodell made two donations totaling $7,000 to Feely's campaign in June of the previous year, one designated for the primary election and the other for the general election. Individual donors are permitted to contribute up to $7,000 per election to a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives.
Feely, who retired from the NFL after the 2014 season, has also received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump. His campaign website outlines his platform as a "proud conservative and staunch supporter of (Trump)" focused on border security, protecting freedoms, and prioritizing an "America First" agenda.
Other notable sports figures who have contributed to Feely's campaign include New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and former CBS colleague Jim Nantz. Then-Ravens head coach Jim Harbaugh donated $2,500 last September. The Bidwill family, owners of the Arizona Cardinals, has collectively donated $17,000 through Michael, Nicole, and Tim Bidwill.
Feely, 50, played for multiple NFL teams during his career, including the Atlanta Falcons, New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals, and Chicago Bears. He ranks 30th on the NFL's all-time scoring list.
Feely told The Arizona Republic that the support from individuals across different political viewpoints reflects the relationships he has cultivated over his 25 years in the NFL. He cited a donation from Arthur Blank, owner of the Falcons, who stated that despite political disagreements, he trusted Feely's character.
Feely's campaign announced in April that it raised $740,000 in the first quarter of 2026. As of late March, FEC records indicated the campaign had approximately $1.25 million. He is competing in a primary election against Joseph Chaplik, a member of the Arizona House of Representatives, and John Trobough, a technology executive. Arizona voters will participate in the primary election on July 21.
Jay Feely entered the race to succeed outgoing Representative Andy Biggs, who is now running for Arizona governor. Feely played college football at Michigan before making his NFL debut in 2001 with the Falcons. He is also advocating for stricter regulation of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) in college sports if elected.