🔗 Share this article

Nick Mangold, a cherished player during his 11-season tenure with the New York Jets, has passed away at the age of 41.

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold revealed he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought help from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in college.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had additional years.

“Regrettably, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in need of a kidney donor with O-type blood.”

Storied Football Career

Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his entire professional football career with the team, securing 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the center fortified an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was highly respected and he sat out only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the soul of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and grit defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and unwavering dedication made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with fans, recognized for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was active on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets matches after his playing days – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his playing days were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape young men into adults and teach the game of football, but also teach them a something about the world as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered his former player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

Mangold was married to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he praised his family, saying they had “been my rock every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, companions, and community behind me.”