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Tony Dungy Announces Decision On Running For U.S. Senate Seat

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Jan 31, 2025 11:03 AM ET

Will Tony Dungy ditch his job at NBC Sports to become a politician? The Hall of Fame coach finally addressed that rumor this week.

Once it was announced that Michigan Sen. Gary Peters wouldn't seek re-election in 2026, Dungy was mentioned as a possible candidate. Al Weaver of The Hill shared this scoop on social media. He wrote, "Asked a GOP source who are possibles to run for Peters seat. They mentioned 4 names: Bill Huizenga, John James, Mike Rogers and ...... former Colts HC Tony Dungy."

Naturally, this report sparked a ton of speculation within the sports world. This wouldn't be the first time that a football coach decided to take a stab at politics. Former Auburn head coach Tommy Tuberville has been a U.S. Senator since 2021.

That being said, Dungy will not be making a run at the soon-to-be vacant Senate seat.

On Thursday night, Dungy shot down the idea that he's leaving broadcasting behind to become a politician.

"Not sure where this idea came from but it didn’t come from me," Dungy said. "I love my home state of Michigan. I pray they will elect a Senator who honors the Lord and leads the people well. But I can assure you it won’t be me. Number 1, I’m not a politician and Number 2 I live in Florida."

ATLANTA, GA - FEBRUARY 02: Former NFL Coach Tony Dungy speaks during the 2019 Athletes in Action/Bart Starr award at the 32nd Annual Super Bowl Breakfast during Super Bowl LIII week on February 2, 2019 at the Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Dungy, 69, coached in the NFL from 1981-2008. He was the head coach of the Indianapolis Colts and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The highlight of his coaching career was winning a Super Bowl during the 2006 season.

Now that Dungy has debunked this rumor, fans can stop worrying about his status for the 2025 NFL season. Barring a personnel change by NBC, he'll remain a prominent voice on "Football Night in America."

Dungy has been with NBC since 2008.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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