If Peyton Manning does indeed run for the Senate, he apparently has one powerful ally on his side.

Arizona senator John McCain was asked by TMZ to share his thoughts on the rumors surrounding Manning possibly joining him in the Senate.

“He’s a national hero, it depends on who he is (running) against,” McCain said. “I can’t think of a finer example of an American who has inspired so many young people.”

While Manning has not officially announced plans to join the political realm, if he did, he would once again be following in the footsteps of Tennessee quarterback Heath Shuler. After setting numerous school passing records at Tennessee, Shuler went on to serve in Congress following a short NFL career.

Manning now has a chance to follow Shuler once again, this time in the political realm.