### Former NFL Kicker Jay Feely Announces Congressional Run Inspired by Political Events - Jay Feely, a former NFL kicker known for his time with the New York Giants, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals, has declared his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives in Arizona's 5th District. This decision comes after a notable career in professional football and broadcasting, marking a significant shift to a political career. Feely's motivation to enter politics was reportedly influenced by an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, which he cited as a pivotal moment that spurred his desire to engage in public service and political discourse [https://nypost.com/2025/04/22/us-news/ex-giants-jets-kicker-jay-feely-runs-for-congress-in-arizona][https://www.lifezette.com/2025/04/inspired-by-trump-shooting-former-nfl-star-enters-arizona-house-race]. ### Structure of Feely's Congressional Campaign Announcement 1. **Background and Career Transition** - Feely has a 14-year NFL career, including significant time with the Arizona Cardinals, and transitioned to broadcasting after retiring in 2014 [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/apr/23/former-nfl-kicker-broadcaster-jay-feely-running-arizona-house-seat]. 2. **Political Motivation** - His decision to run is linked to a desire to contribute to political discussions, particularly after the Trump assassination attempt, which he described as a wake-up call [https://www.lifezette.com/2025/04/inspired-by-trump-shooting-former-nfl-star-enters-arizona-house-race]. 3. **Current Political Landscape** - Feely is vying for a seat currently held by Republican Andy Biggs, who is running for governor, indicating a competitive political environment in Arizona [https://www.abc15.com/news/state/former-arizona-cardinals-kicker-running-for-congress]. ### Supporting Evidence and Context - **Career Overview**: - NFL Tenure: 14 seasons, including four with the Arizona Cardinals, two with the Giants, and two with the Jets [https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/04/23/jay-feely-running-congress-arizona-nfl-kicker]. - Broadcasting Career: 10 years as a CBS broadcaster following his NFL career [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/apr/23/former-nfl-kicker-broadcaster-jay-feely-running-arizona-house-seat]. - **Political Context**: - Feely's run is set against the backdrop of a changing political landscape in Arizona, with Biggs' gubernatorial bid opening up the congressional seat [https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/jay-feely-ex-cardinals-kicker-announces-run-congress]. - **Public Response**: - Feely's announcement has garnered attention, particularly among sports fans and political observers, as he transitions from sports to politics [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/former-giants-kicker-running-congress-201000353.html]. ### Conclusion: Jay Feely's Political Aspirations - **Key Takeaways**: 1. **Career Shift**: Feely is moving from sports to politics, aiming to leverage his public profile for a congressional seat. 2. **Motivational Factors**: His candidacy is inspired by significant political events, particularly the Trump assassination attempt, which he views as a catalyst for his political engagement. 3. **Political Opportunity**: With the current congressman running for governor, Feely sees an opportunity to enter the political arena at a pivotal moment. - **Overall Implication**: Feely's entry into the political sphere reflects a growing trend of former athletes engaging in politics, potentially reshaping the political landscape in Arizona as he seeks to connect with voters on issues that resonate with his experiences and values [https://ktar.com/arizona-election-articles/jay-feely-us-congress/5696924].