From Field Goals to Capitol Hill

Former New York Giants and New York Jets kicker Jay Feely is headed to the general election after winning the Republican primary for Arizona's 1st Congressional District, marking another chapter in the former NFL standout's career.

While the election is taking place thousands of miles from New York, Feely remains a familiar name to football fans across the Empire State. He spent two seasons with the Jets from 2008-09 before joining the Arizona Cardinals, and he also enjoyed a stint with the Giants during his 14-year NFL career.

Adding another New York connection to the race, Feely's likely Democratic opponent, Amish Shah, also has ties to the Jets organization. Shah served as an emergency room physician for the team while Feely was kicking in New York.

"If it ends up being Amish Shah, he and I were both with the Jets at one time together. I was playing, he was a doctor," Feely said following Tuesday's primary victory. "It's an old relationship."

Feely also emphasized that he hopes to run a respectful campaign regardless of who ultimately becomes his opponent.

"I want to make sure that I give them respect, I listen to them and give them the respect that they're due, but still continue to stand up for my beliefs and what I believe is best for my district and my country," he said.

As of Wednesday morning, Shah led the Democratic primary with 40.5% of the vote and appeared on track to earn his party's nomination. The district covers portions of Phoenix, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, and Paradise Valley.

Shah previously represented the area in the Arizona House of Representatives and was the Democratic nominee for the district in 2024, narrowly losing to Republican David Schweikert.

Feely entered politics after a successful football and broadcasting career and received a high-profile endorsement from President Donald Trump during the campaign.

"Grateful for his endorsement and grateful for his support," Feely said. "I look forward to the general election and being able to make the contrast between the two parties and what they believe in."

For New York football fans, it will be another opportunity to follow the next chapter in the career of a player many remember from his time kicking under the bright lights of MetLife Stadium.