Jon Runyan’s(notes) name is being tossed about as a potential candidate for New Jersey congressman. The six-foot-seven, 330-pound former Philadelphia Eagles lineman had microfracture surgery on his knee early this year, and has been unable to find work in the NFL. Obviously, the next rational step would be Congress.

Sources tell PolitickerNJ.com that Assemblywoman Dawn Addiego (R-Evesham) – who knows Runyan because their children attend school together – has talked to him about running. Runyan, who is not currently active in the NFL but has not retired, has not ruled out a run. It is unclear, however, how serious the prospect is.

Reached for comment by PolitickerNJ.com, Addiego said “I don’t think I’m at liberty to discuss that right now.”

 

Runyan would be running as a Republican, but outside of that, I can’t say I know anything about his political values. As an offensive linemen, Runyan believed in the “speak softly and carry a big stick” ideology, and also showed an ability to filibuster your face in.

For a slightly more informed look at Runyan’s chances, here’s a snippet from Hugging Harold Reynolds:

Runyan’s toughest challenge – should he enter the race – would more likely come from his own party rather than the incumbent. The seat, which was held by Republican Jim Saxon since 1993 before his retirement in 2008, is widely seen as one of the national GOP’s top pick-up opportunities, with Adler having benefited greatly from the immense Obama surge during the presidential year race. Since his election, the 2010 mid-term was recognized as being Adler’s “real” challenge