You often see former NFL players step into roles as broadcasters, analysts, or front office executives after retirement. But it’s rare to see one dive into politics. And former Cardinals placekicker Jay Feely just joined that small club. On Tuesday, Feely made a big announcement; he’s running for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives for Arizona’s fifth congressional district in the 2026 midterm elections.

Speaking with ESPN, Feely shared, “I’m excited about this next chapter of my life. I think that I feel God’s calling pressing me into service, and that’s really what I believe it is, is the civil service.” He added, “I don’t believe we have enough politicians that get into political office not for self-serving measures… and don’t want it to be a career, and that’s what I believe.“

So, as Feely steps into the political spotlight, many are curious about his roots. Who are the people who helped shape the former NFL kicker’s drive, discipline, and sense of purpose?

Who are Jay Feely’s parents?

Jay Feely’s NFL journey kicked off in 2001 with the Atlanta Falcons, and he wrapped it up with the Chicago Bears in 2014. He had no prior connection to politics. The 48-year-old comes from a family deeply rooted in sports. His grandfather, Thomas J. Feely, left a lasting legacy as a college basketball and baseball coach at St. Thomas College in St. Paul, Minnesota. Thomas J. was honored with induction into the N.A.I.A. National Basketball Hall of Fame, for his achievements as both a coach and a player. Following in those footsteps, Jay’s father, Thomas J. “T.J.” Feely, not only played RB at the College of St. Thomas but also became a tennis coach. As per his X account, he also has tremendous experience coaching football. 

As for Feely’s mother, she remains somewhat of a mystery to the public. What’s known is that she worked as a rehabilitation counselor and even started a foundation to help people in need of rehabilitation services. Other than that, little is known about the former placekicker’s mom. Jay’s got the sense of empathy in him from an early age, after he experienced a personal battle. One of Feely’s older brothers, Michael, was born with both mental and physical disabilities. Feely’s family lost Michael when he was 26.

Ever since, Jay and his other siblings have always made it a point to help the community in whatever way they could. His siblings even pursued medical careers to be able to do so.

Jay Feely’s family: Meet his wife and their children

Feely is married to Rebecca, who is a high school science teacher. The couple has been together for over 26 years and lives in Arizona. Rebecca is a graduate of the University of Michigan, Jay’s alma mater, too, so the couple has probably been together since college. Rebecca also holds a master’s degree in Biology/Biological Sciences from Grand Canyon University.

The couple shares five children -four daughters and a son. Jay’s son, Jace, like his father, is making a career in football. He currently plays as a kicker for the University of Colorado. Their older daughters, Lexi and Delmonte, are married, while the younger ones, Abby and Olivia, are still in high school.

Jay is also great friends with fellow former NFL players and college teammates, Tom Brady and Desmond Howard. Feely has worked for ESPN, CBS Sports, and CNN. From locker rooms to studios to now legislative halls, Feely is now ready to be in the public service arena.