🔗 Share this article

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

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

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

“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 hoped I would have had more time.

“Unfortunately, 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 families. I am in search of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Illustrious 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, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman fortified an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate 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 not just a iconic center,” franchise ownership said in a statement. “He was the heartbeat 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, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with supporters, known for his long hair, facial hair, 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 playing days – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area 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 teach the game of football, but also impart them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his former player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a great person. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family Life and Impact

Mangold was wed to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he thanked his family, saying they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible family, friends, and community behind me.”