🔗 Share this article

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

Health Battle and Public Appeal

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

“In 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I believed I would have had more time.

“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 communities. I am in search of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Storied NFL Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his entire professional football career with the franchise, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman fortified an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was universally praised 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 remarked in a statement. “He was the soul of our offensive line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with supporters, known for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets matches 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 career were over, taking on the role of an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his former player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a great young man. I had the pleasure 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 injured – like, injured – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family Life and Impact

Mangold was married to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 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 family, stating they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This situation has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, friends, and network behind me.”