🔗 Share this article

Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his eleven-year tenure with the New York Jets, has passed away at the young age of 41.

Medical Struggle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold disclosed he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought support from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in college.

“In 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he explained 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 willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with O-type blood.”

Storied Football Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his whole professional football career with the franchise, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman anchored an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach 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 legendary center,” the team’s owner said in a statement. “He was the soul of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose guidance and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and engaging personality. He was active on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets matches after his retirement – he downed 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, taking on the role of an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape young men into men and teach the game 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 emotional as he remembered his former player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor 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, injured – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

Mangold was wed to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the London Games in weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he praised his loved ones, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an amazing family, companions, and community behind me.”