Jason Kelce Honors Late Jets Legend Nick Mangold as Top NFL Center

Jason Kelce, former Philadelphia Eagles center and widely regarded as one of the best at his position, paid an emotional tribute to the late Nick Mangold, legendary New York Jets center who passed away at 41 due to kidney disease complications. On his New Heights podcast, Kelce described Mangold as "ten times the player" he ever was, emphasizing Mangold's exceptional talent in pass protection, run blocking, leadership, and dominance at the center position. Mangold, a seven-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, was a cornerstone of the Jets' successful era in the late 2000s, helping the team reach back-to-back AFC Championship games. Kelce acknowledged that though many consider him the best center of his generation, he personally believes Mangold was superior in skill and impact. Both players were Ohio State alumni and highly respected for their intelligence and toughness on the field. Kelce's tribute highlights Mangold's legacy as one of the best offensive linemen of the past two decades and mourns the tragedy of his premature death.