🔗 Share this article

Nick Mangold, a beloved athlete during his eleven-year tenure with the Jets franchise, has died at the age of 41.

Medical Battle and Community Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for support from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in college.

“In 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I believed I would have had longer.

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

Storied NFL Career

Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his entire professional football career with the franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman anchored an offensive 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 universally praised and he sat out only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” the team’s owner stated in a statement. “He was the core of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose guidance and toughness characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with fans, recognized for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his retirement – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the area when his playing days were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape boys into men and teach the sport of football, but also teach them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with a newspaper in 2024.

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

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

When he revealed his condition he thanked his loved ones, saying they had “been my rock every step of the way. This situation has made me realize how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and community behind me.”