Jets Legend Nick Mangold Dies at 41 Amid Seeking 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 Public Appeal
In early announcements, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought support from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in his collegiate years.
“Back in 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had longer.
“Unfortunately, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m appealing to you, our Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in search 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 dedicated his entire professional football career with the team, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman led an offensive 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 resilience was widely admired and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.
“Nick was not just a legendary center,” franchise ownership remarked in a release. “He was the core of our offensive line for a ten years and a beloved teammate whose leadership and toughness characterized an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, warmth, and steadfast loyalty made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”
Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life
Mangold was a massive favorite with fans, known for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and engaging character. He was engaged on social media 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 honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his career were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.
“You get to shape young men into men and instruct the game of football, but also teach them a little bit about life 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 ex- player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”
Personal Life and Legacy
Mangold was wed to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, competed for USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.
When he revealed his illness he paid tribute to his family, stating they had “been my rock every step of the way. This situation has made me realize how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and network behind me.”