New York Jets Icon Nick Mangold Dies at 41 Amid Seeking Kidney Transplant
Nick Mangold, an adored player during his eleven-year tenure with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the age of 41.
Medical Struggle and Community Appeal
Earlier in the month, Mangold revealed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought support from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in college.
“Back in 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had longer.
“Unfortunately, I do not have any relatives willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our Jets and Ohio State families. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”
Storied NFL Career
Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his whole professional football career with the team, securing 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the center fortified an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was universally praised and he sat out only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.
“Nick was more than a legendary center,” the team’s owner stated in a statement. “He was the core of our O-line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose guidance and grit characterized an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, warmth, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”
Beloved Figure and Later Life
Mangold was a huge favourite with fans, recognized for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and outgoing personality. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular attendee 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 region when his playing days were over, taking on the role of an assistant 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 little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold told a newspaper in 2024.
Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered his ex- player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – 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 longtime partner, 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 condition he thanked his family, saying they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This circumstance has made me realize how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, companions, and network behind me.”