Ex-Jets center Nick Mangold considering running for Congress

Will Nick Mangold run for Congress? (AP Photo | Julio Cortez)Ex-Jets center Nick Mangold has been politically active in the Republican Party for a while.

But now, he is thinking about running for Congress, according to Essex County Republican Chairman Al Barlas, in an interview with Politico.

Rodney Frelinghuysen, a 71-year-old Republican who represents New Jersey's 11th congressional district, is retiring. Mangold is considering running in the Republican primary to replace him.

"I had a conversation with him," Barlas told Politico. "He's intrigued by the idea. He has to think it over and talk with his wife. After an 11-year playing career and a college career, he's enjoying being at home with…