Football legend Peyton Manning is interested in running for U.S. Senate, Rep. Scott DesJarlais of Tennessee said in an interview Tuesday.

“Peyton Manning is a great guy and a popular guy,” the Republican congressman told Business Insider, adding that Manning would most likely be interested in running in 2020 if Sen. Lamar Alexander of Tennessee retires.

The comments came days after Tennessee Sen. Bob Corker, a Republican, announced the would not seek re-election. Corker has served as senator since 2007.

DesJarlais also floated the name of Tennessee Rep. Marsha Blackburn, a Republican, as a potential candidate for Corker’s seat due to her “strong conservative voice.”

Manning doesn’t have much of a political history, but the former Indianapolis Colts quarterback has instant national name recognition. Manning even started his football career at the University of Tennessee.

Manning is also independently wealthy. He has an estimated net worth of $200 million according to Richest.com. A financial head start would be beneficial, as the Republican Party will most likely want to save cash in order to put the funds towards important races.

Since Alexander is up for re-election in 2020, Desjarlais asserted that Manning may want to run.

Follow Phillip On Twitter

Have a Tip? Let us Know

Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience. For licensing opportunities of our original content, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.