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

Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his eleven-year tenure with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the age of 41.

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold disclosed he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought help from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in college.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m on dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had more time.

“Sadly, I do not have any relatives willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m appealing to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State families. I am in search of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Illustrious Football 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 franchise, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that period, the center anchored an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was widely admired and he missed 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 heartbeat of our O-line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, recognized for his long hair, facial hair, 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 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 career were over, taking on the role of an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold boys into adults and teach the sport of football, but also impart them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold told a newspaper in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his ex- player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches 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 longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, competed for USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

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