Former Tide Defensive Lineman Drops GOP Bid For Congress

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Former University of Alabama and NFL defensive end Wallace Gilberry released a statement Monday announcing that he has decided to drop his bid as a Republican for Alabama's newly redrawn 2nd Congressional District.

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"I'm not a politician, but my heart has always been in helping Alabama and helping our people better themselves," Gilberry said. "The response we've received over the last month in this campaign has been humbling and I'm blown away by it. After reflecting over Christmas and New Years, I have come to the decision that this race, at this time, is not the right place for me to help my community, so I will be stepping aside. But I am never going to quit on Alabama. Or on you."

Gilberry went on to say that he planned to continue serving in the community and stick to fighting for conservative values.

"I will continue to serve our communities and be involved in any and every way I can to fight back against out-of-touch liberal politicians and too many bad policies that are hurting people and making life tougher every day," he said. "I love you all and look forward to seeing you around Alabama very soon and may God bless you all."

As Patch previously reported, Gilberry brought name recognition to an already crowded field, with qualifying for the March 5 primary ending in early November 2023. At that point in the race, 21 candidates had qualified to appear on the primary ballot for the new district.

Gilberry's brief campaign was one focused on being tough on crime, securing the southern border, lowering the cost of living, "protecting the unborn," and defending women's sports.

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.

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

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