🔗 Share this article

Nick Mangold, an adored player during his 11-season career with the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41.

Health Battle and Public Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold revealed he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He reached out for assistance from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.

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

Storied Football Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his whole professional football career with the team, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the center led an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was widely admired and he missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” the team’s owner remarked in a release. “He was the soul of our O-line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose leadership and grit defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with fans, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and engaging character. He was active on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets games after his retirement – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his career were over, taking on the role of an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered his former player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a great person. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was wed to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he paid tribute to his loved ones, stating they had “been my support every phase of the way. This situation has made me realize how lucky I am to have such an incredible family, companions, and community behind me.”