Nick Mangold, the former New York Jets center beloved for his tenacity and leadership, has died at age 41 from complications related to kidney disease, the team announced Sunday. His passing comes merely 12 days after he made a public plea seeking a kidney donor.
Tributes from the Jets and Ohio State
Jets owner Woody Johnson remembered Mangold as “more than a legendary center,” describing him as “the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade” while praising the leadership and resilience that came to define a generation for the franchise. Johnson spoke of Mangold’s “wit, warmth, and steadfast loyalty,” underscoring his significance that extended well beyond game day.
The New York Jets shared their grief across social media platforms, breaking the heartbreaking news to fans and the broader football world. Ohio State’s football program joined in mourning the loss, offering condolences to Mangold’s loved ones.
Health Struggle and Public Plea
On October 14, Mangold disclosed he’d been fighting a rare genetic condition first diagnosed back in 2006, which eventually caused kidney failure and required ongoing dialysis. He turned to both the Jets and Ohio State communities for assistance, explaining the challenge of locating a compatible donor with his Type O blood—none of his family members were matches.
At the time, Mangold shared, “This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health.”
Career Highlights and Legacy
A standout two-time All-American at Ohio State, Mangold joined the NFL when New York drafted him in the opening round of 2006, along with fellow lineman and college teammate D’Brickashaw Ferguson. The duo, dubbed “Nick & Brick,” formed the backbone of a Jets offensive line that fueled playoff runs in 2006, 2009, and 2010—the franchise’s most recent postseason appearances during Rex Ryan’s tenure as head coach.
Ryan, who now works as an ESPN analyst, spoke emotionally about Mangold’s toughness and commitment, recalling with tears how Mangold pushed to play despite injury in Ryan’s final game coaching the Jets. He described Mangold as “awesome” and expressed sorrow at how young he was to leave us.
During his playing days, Mangold collected seven Pro Bowl nods and earned two first-team All-Pro recognitions. He became known for his field intelligence and remarkable durability, starting 164 of 176 games across 11 NFL seasons while missing just a few contests due to injury.
The Jets honored Mangold with induction into their Ring of Honor in 2022. He memorably celebrated his speech by popping open a beer before the crowd, sporting his trademark backwards baseball cap—a look that became synonymous with his public appearances.
Life After Football
Following his retirement from professional football, Mangold made his home in New Jersey and took on a role as assistant football coach at Delbarton School in Morristown. He found fulfillment in guiding young athletes, both in their athletic pursuits and personal development.
Family and Final Remarks
Nick Mangold leaves behind his wife, Jennifer, and their four children: Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. Former Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick also honored his memory, describing Mangold as an “all-time teammate” while expressing deep sorrow for his family.
Mangold currently stands as a finalist among 52 modern-era candidates being evaluated for Pro Football Hall of Fame induction. His legacy endures through his reputation for toughness, leadership, and complete dedication to the sport he loved.
