Jets Legend Nick Mangold Passes Away at 41 While Pursuing Kidney Transplant

Nick Mangold, a beloved player during his 11-season career with the New York Jets, has passed away at the age of 41.

Medical Struggle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought support 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 resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I believed I would have had longer.

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

Storied NFL 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 team, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman fortified an offensive line alongside 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 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 stated in a statement. “He was the soul of our offensive line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose leadership and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, kindness, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with fans, known for his long hair, facial hair, charitable work and engaging character. He was active on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee 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 playing days were over, becoming an assistant 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 teach them a something about the world as you go along,” Mangold told a newspaper in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a great person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was wed to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, 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 family, saying they had “been my support every phase of the way. This circumstance has made me realize how lucky I am to have such an amazing home, friends, and network behind me.”