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

Health Battle and Community Appeal

Earlier this 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 found to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I believed 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 turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O 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 team, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that era, the center anchored an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was universally praised and he sat out only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” the team’s owner stated in a statement. “He was the soul of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and grit defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, known for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets games after his playing days – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his playing days were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold boys into adults and instruct the sport of football, but also impart them a something about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with a newspaper in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m playing 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 children, 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 family, stating they had “been my rock every step of the way. This circumstance has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, friends, and network behind me.”