Jets Icon Nick Mangold Dies at 41 While Seeking Kidney Transplant

Nick Mangold, a beloved athlete during his eleven-year career with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the age of 41.

Medical Struggle and Community Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought support from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in his collegiate years.

“Back in 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough 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 believed I would have had longer.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any family willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m appealing to you, our 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 seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that period, the center led an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was widely admired and he sat out only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” franchise ownership said in a release. “He was the core of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose guidance and grit characterized an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with supporters, recognized for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was active on social media and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets matches after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his playing days were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold boys into men and teach the sport of football, but also teach them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with a newspaper in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his former player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

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

When he revealed his condition he paid tribute to his family, saying they had “been my support every step of the way. This situation has made me realize how lucky I am to have such an incredible family, companions, and network behind me.”