Nick Mangold, a former All-Pro center for the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41 due to complications from kidney disease. The team announced his passing on Sunday, highlighting his legacy as a foundational player and beloved figure in the organization.
Mangold died on Saturday night after a nearly 19-year battle with chronic kidney disease, a condition he was diagnosed with in 2006. Earlier this month, he publicly disclosed his health struggles, revealing he was undergoing dialysis and actively seeking a kidney donor. In a social media appeal, he asked the Jets and Ohio State communities for help, emphasizing his type O blood requirement and his hope for a transplant to improve his quality of life.
Drafted by the Jets in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, Mangold spent his entire 11-year professional career with the team. He quickly became a cornerstone of the offensive line, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and two first-team All-Pro honors, along with one second-team All-Pro recognition. His durability and skill were instrumental during the Jets’ consecutive AFC Championship Game appearances in 2009 and 2010, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s elite centers.
Before his NFL success, Mangold was a key player at Ohio State, where he contributed to the Buckeyes’ national championship victory in 2002. His collegiate achievements laid the groundwork for a professional career marked by consistency and leadership. In recognition of his contributions, the Jets inducted him into their Ring of Honor in 2022, and he was recently named to the initial list of modern-era players for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, underscoring his lasting impact on the sport.
Off the field, Mangold was known for his wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty to his family and teammates. He is survived by his wife, Jenny, and their four children: Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. Jets Chairman Woody Johnson expressed profound condolences, describing Mangold as a cherished member of the extended Jets family whose character and dedication extended far beyond football.
The announcement of Mangold’s death cast a somber tone over the Jets’ Week 8 game against the Cincinnati Bengals, where the team secured a come-from-behind victory. Head coach Aaron Glenn and former coach Rex Ryan paid emotional tributes, with Ryan recalling Mangold’s decision to play through injury in his final game as a testament to his loyalty and team-first mentality. Their reflections highlighted how Mangold’s presence defined an era of Jets football and left an indelible mark on those who knew him.
Mangold’s openness about his health journey has raised awareness about kidney disease and the critical need for organ donation. His passing is not only a loss to the football community but also a reminder of the challenges faced by those with chronic illnesses. As the Jets and fans mourn, his legacy endures through his on-field achievements, his advocacy, and the memories shared by family, friends, and admirers.