Jets Legend Nick Mangold Passes Away 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 in the 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 shone in college.

“In 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had more time.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any relatives able 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.”

Storied NFL Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his whole professional football career with the franchise, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman fortified an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was highly respected and he missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

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

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, beard, charitable work 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 chugged a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the region when his career were over, taking on the role of an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his former player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was married 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, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This circumstance has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, friends, and network behind me.”