🔗 Share this article

Nick Mangold, a beloved athlete during his 11-season career with the Jets franchise, has died at the young age of 41.

Health Battle and Community Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold shared he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He reached out for help from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in college.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m on dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had longer.

“Regrettably, I do not have any family willing 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 O-type blood.”

Storied Football Career

Mangold was a first-round pick 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 a league All-Pro on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman anchored an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was widely admired and he missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” franchise ownership remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a beloved teammate whose leadership and grit characterized an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with fans, known for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets games after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the area when his career were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape boys into adults and teach the game of football, but also teach them a little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his former 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, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four 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 paid tribute to his family, stating they had “been my rock every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, companions, and community behind me.”