Former Philadelphia Eagle Jon Runyan won the GOP nod Tuesday night in New Jersey’s 3rd district, setting up a contest against first-term Rep. John Adler (D) this fall that Republicans hope will be competitive.

Runyan, a political newcomer, defeated former Tabernacle lawmaker Justin Murphy 58 percent to 42 percent Tuesday night, a somewhat underwhelming showing for a candidate who has been touted by the national GOP.

The former NFL player hopes to appeal to voters in the southern New Jersey district, which is part of the Philadelphia media market and was represented by a Republican for more than two decades. But Adler, who was elected to his first term with 52 percent in 2008, has a slight advantage in the race and is favored to hold the seat. Adler cruised to victory over Barry Bendar in the Democratic primary Tuesday.