Jets Legend Nick Mangold Passes Away at 41 While Pursuing Kidney Transplant
Nick Mangold, a cherished athlete during his 11-season tenure with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the young age of 41.
Health Struggle and Public Appeal
In early announcements, Mangold disclosed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in college.
“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.
“Regrettably, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in search of a kidney donor with type O blood.”
Storied Football Career
Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his entire professional football career with the franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an 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 advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was widely admired and he missed only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.
“Nick was not just a legendary center,” franchise ownership remarked in a statement. “He was the soul of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose guidance and grit defined an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”
Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life
Mangold was a massive favourite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, beard, charitable work and outgoing character. He was active on social media and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent 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 region when his career were over, taking on the role of an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.
“You get to mold young men into adults and instruct the sport of football, but also teach them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.
Former coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his former player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “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 released, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”
Personal Life and Legacy
Mangold was wed to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.
When he announced his condition he praised his family, saying they had “been my rock every step of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and network behind me.”