Former New York Jets player Nick Mangold has died at age 41. He passed away from complications related to kidney disease.
The New York Jets’ official X (formerly Twitter) account shared news of Mangold’s death on Sunday, October 26. A team press release confirmed he died on Saturday, October 25.
Just days before his passing, Mangold had openly discussed his severe health condition. He shared with followers that he was awaiting a kidney transplant.
“Not an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what has been happening with me and my health,” Mangold wrote on Instagram on Tuesday, October 14. “In 2006, I was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I am on dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant. I always knew this day would come, but I thought I’d have more time.”
The NFL and Jets communities expressed their grief following the news.
“Nick was more than a legendary center,” Jets Chairman Woody Johnson said in a statement. “He was the heart of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and tenacity defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our great Jets family.”
Jets Chairman Christopher Johnson also remembered Mangold as a “personification of consistency, strength, and leadership.”
Johnson continued, “For over a decade he was the anchor of our offensive line with unmatched skill and determination, earning the respect of teammates, opponents, and fans alike. His contributions on the field were extraordinary, but it was his character, humility, and sense of humor off the field that made him unforgettable.”
Former Jets head coach Rex Ryan, now an ESPN analyst, reacted emotionally on Sunday NFL Countdown.
“It’s brutal. Such a great young man,” Ryan said on the program. He coached Mangold for six seasons. “I had the pleasure of coaching him for six years with the Jets.”
Ryan added, “He was amazing and just too young. My heart goes out to his wife and family.”
Mangold is survived by his wife, Jenny, and their four children: Matthew, 14; Eloise, 11; Thomas, 9; and Charlotte, 7.
Mangold played 11 seasons for the Jets, from 2006 to 2016. He earned two All-Pro selections and was named to seven Pro Bowls during his NFL career.
He started every Jets game from 2006 until an ankle injury broke his 89-game streak in early 2011. He returned two games later and played another 59 consecutive contests. In total, Mangold started 171 games for the Jets, including seven playoff appearances.
Mangold was inducted into the Jets Ring of Honor in 2022. Just last week, he advanced in consideration for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026. The Hall will continue to narrow the list before announcing new members the day before Super Bowl LX.