Jay Feely, former NFL kicker and current broadcaster wants Stephen A. Smith to run for President

Former NFL kicker and current Arizona congressional candidate Jay Feely has found himself not only defending his conservative values but also advocating for an unconventional voice from across the aisle—ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith. During a candid appearance on NewsNation’s The Hill, Feely made headlines by expressing enthusiasm for Smith’s potential run for the 2028 presidential election as a Democrat, calling him an “excellent communicator” with the ability to make a “gut value connection” with Americans.

Jay Feely, who recently launched a congressional campaign to replace Rep. Andy Biggs in Arizona’s 5th District, believes that American politics is in dire need of individuals who aren’t molded by the traditional political establishment. His support for Stephen A. Smith, though they likely hold opposing views, was rooted in his belief in the power of communication and authenticity.
“I respect his talent that he has in communicating, because he is an excellent communicator, and he has a way of making that gut value connection with people,” Feely said.
“I would revel in sitting on the opposite side of Stephen A. Smith on a debate stage and us going at it when it comes to political issues and matters that the American people really care about, rather than just sports issues,” he added. His comment wasn’t just about admiration—it was a nod to the deeper need for honest, passionate dialogue in today’s political climate.
While Feely is a staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump, he insists that political affiliation is secondary to character and conviction. “It’s really about being able to have a vision, communicate that vision and for American people to believe in you,” he stated. “I think what the American people want the most, they want transparency, and they want people to be honest about what they believe.”

A former NFL journeyman who played for teams like the Atlanta Falcons and Arizona Cardinals, Feely transitioned into a media role as a sports analyst after retiring from football. However, it was a near-tragic moment—the attempted assassination of Trump at a campaign rally—that served as the turning point for Feely. It made him rethink his place in American democracy and compelled him to take action.
“What he’s trying to do, to get rid of [diversity, equity and inclusion], to change … gender laws and protect our girls, should be applauded by everyone,” Feely said of Trump. “And you know, I’ll be one of those guys that fights for his agenda, believes in his agenda and is an advocate for him.”
Feely’s campaign emphasizes service over self-interest, echoing his approach during his NFL days. “That’s what I did when I was playing football, trying to use that platform. That’s what I’ll do when I’m in politics in Congress, is try to represent my constituents and represent this country and try to make us better.”
With roots deeply planted in Arizona and a passion for pushing the country forward, Feely is not only shaking up the race with his candidacy but also with his unexpected support for voices like Smith’s. Whether across the field or across the aisle, Feely believes that the future of politics lies in sincerity, substance, and the courage to break the mold.
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