Roger Goodell, Charles Barkley Among Sports Figures Backing Jay Feely’s Trump‑Endorsed Arizona House Bid

Jay Feely, the former NFL kicker turned broadcaster, has attracted high-profile support as he campaigns for Arizona's 1st Congressional District. The Republican candidate — who retired after the 2014 season and still ranks among the NFL's all-time scorers — has received donations from notable sports figures as he seeks to help Republicans defend a narrow House majority.

Prominent Donors and Endorsements

Public filings with the Federal Election Commission show that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley have contributed to Feely's campaign. Goodell made two $3,500 donations last June — one designated for the primary and one for the general election — the maximum allowable per election under federal law (individuals may give up to $7,000 per candidate, per election).

Feely also secured a political endorsement from former President Donald Trump, and his campaign has drawn contributions from other sports figures including Robert Kraft (New England Patriots owner), longtime broadcaster Jim Nantz, then-Baltimore Ravens coach Jim Harbaugh (who donated $2,500), and members of the Bidwill family (owners of the Arizona Cardinals), who together have given about $17,000.

Jay Feely on the sideline at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada on Feb. 11, 2024.

Campaign Finances and Outlook

The National Republican Congressional Committee reported that Feely's campaign raised $740,000 in the first quarter of 2026, and FEC records estimate his campaign had roughly $1.25 million on hand as of late March. Feely faces a competitive Republican primary on July 21 against former state representative Joseph Chaplik and technology executive John Trobough.

Feely's Background and Positions

Feely, 50, went undrafted out of Michigan in 1999 and made his NFL regular-season debut with the Atlanta Falcons in 2001. Over a 25-year affiliation with professional football as a player and broadcaster, he also played for the New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals, and finished with the Chicago Bears. He remains 30th on the NFL's all-time scoring list.

On policy, Feely has said he would back tighter regulation of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation in college sports if elected. He frames the donations he has received from sports figures — some of whom disagree with him politically — as a reflection of long-standing personal relationships built during his time in football.

"It's just been an honor for me to be around the NFL for 25 years and to get a chance to meet the people," Feely told The Arizona Republic. "When I reached out to [Arthur Blank], he said, 'Jay, we disagree politically on so many issues, but I trust your heart, so I'll donate to your campaign to support you.'"

With the seat open because Rep. David Schweikert is running for governor, Feely's mix of celebrity backing, Trump’s endorsement, and early fundraising puts him among the leading contenders in a closely watched Arizona primary.