🔗 Share this article

Nick Mangold, a beloved athlete during his eleven-year tenure with the New York Jets, has passed away at the young age of 41.

Health Battle and Community Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold disclosed he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought support from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in college.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m on dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had more time.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any relatives able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Storied NFL Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his entire professional football career with the team, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman fortified an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was widely admired and he sat out only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the soul of our O-line for a ten years and a beloved teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, recognized for his flowing locks, beard, charitable work and outgoing personality. He was engaged on social media and was seldom spotted without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets games after his retirement – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the region when his playing days were over, taking on the role of an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold boys into adults and instruct the game of football, but also impart them a something about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his ex- player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he paid tribute to his family, stating they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an incredible family, friends, and network behind me.”