🔗 Share this article

Nick Mangold, a cherished player during his 11-season career with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the 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 help from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in his collegiate years.

“Back in 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.

“Regrettably, I do not have any family willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State families. I am in search 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 dedicated his entire professional football career with the franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the center anchored an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was widely admired and he missed only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” franchise ownership said in a release. “He was the soul of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and grit defined an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, known for his flowing locks, beard, charitable work and engaging character. He was active on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his retirement – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his playing days were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m participating in 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 four kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he thanked his loved ones, stating they had “been my support every phase of the way. This situation has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an incredible family, friends, and network behind me.”