🔗 Share this article

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

Medical Struggle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for assistance 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 resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m on dialysis as we seek 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 relatives willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State families. I am in need of a kidney donor with O-type blood.”

Illustrious NFL Career

Mangold was a first-round pick 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 on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman anchored an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was universally praised and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” the team’s owner stated in a release. “He was the soul of our offensive line for a ten years and a beloved teammate whose leadership and toughness characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, known for his long hair, facial hair, charitable work and engaging character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets games after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his career were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape young men into adults and instruct the game of football, but also impart them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

Mangold was wed to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, represented USA at the London Games in weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he paid tribute to his loved ones, saying they had “been my support every phase of the way. This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and community behind me.”