New York Jets Legend Nick Mangold Dies at 41 Amid Pursuing Kidney Transplant
Nick Mangold, a beloved athlete during his 11-season career with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the young age of 41.
Medical Battle and Community Appeal
Earlier in the month, Mangold disclosed he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought help from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years.
“Back 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 seek 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 appealing to you, our Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”
Illustrious 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 franchise, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that era, the center fortified an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was widely admired and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.
“Nick was more than a iconic center,” franchise ownership stated in a statement. “He was the soul of our O-line for a decade and a respected teammate whose guidance and toughness characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, warmth, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”
Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life
Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, known for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was active on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being inducted 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 young men into men and instruct the sport of football, but also teach them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.
Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – 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 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.
When he announced his illness he praised his loved ones, saying they had “been my support every phase of the way. This circumstance has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, companions, and network behind me.”