Former Tide Defensive Lineman Announces Republican Bid For Congress

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Former University of Alabama and NFL defensive end Wallace Gilberry has announced his bid as a Republican for Alabama's newly redrawn 2nd Congressional District.

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Gilberry brings name recognition to an already crowded field, with qualifying for the March 5 primary ending in early November. In total, 21 candidates have qualified to appear on the primary ballot for the new district.

"I was blessed to play football for Alabama and in the NFL for nine seasons," Gilberry says on his campaign website. "When I retired I moved home because I love it here in Alabama. I’m running because we all know that career politicians from both parties and the people in charge of this country don’t care about Alabama. I know how great Alabama is, and how great we can be. I’m in this fight for Alabama, and I humbly ask you join me."

Among the topics for his campaign platform are:

• Being tough on crime.
• Securing the border.
• Lowering the cost of living.
• "Protecting the unborn"
• Defend women's sports

All seven of Alabama's congressional seats are on the ballot for the March primary.

A graduate of Baldwin County High School, Gilberry continued his football career for coach Mike Shula at the University of Alabama, where he redshirted in 2003 before appearing in 50 games from 2004 to 2007.

Gilberry became a starter his sophomore year at The Capstone and would go on in 2007 to be named a first-team selection to the All-SEC Coaches’ Football Team.

Despite going undrafted after his college playing days, Gilberry went on to a commendable NFL career from 2008 to 2016, making stops with the New York Giants, Kansas City Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Cincinnati Bengals, Detroit Lions and the Cincinnati Bengals.

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