🔗 Share this article

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

Health Struggle and Public Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold revealed 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 his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he wrote 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 able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State families. I am in search of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Storied NFL Career

Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his whole professional football career with the franchise, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman fortified an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was universally praised and he missed only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner said in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a respected teammate whose guidance and toughness 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.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with fans, recognized for his long hair, beard, charitable work and outgoing character. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets games after his retirement – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his playing days were over, taking on the role of an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

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

When he revealed his illness he praised his family, saying they had “been my support every step of the way. This situation has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, companions, and network behind me.”