Former All-Pro center Nick Mangold, who was the heart of the New York Jets for over a decade, has died at age 41 after complications from chronic kidney disease. His passing came Saturday night. He had nearly 20 years of managing the disease and receiving dialysis. Jets chairman Woody Johnson described Mangold as “more than a legendary center.” He credited his leadership and spirit for shaping an era in Jets history.
Just hours before Mangold’s death was announced, the Jets secured a victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. After the game, head coach Aaron Glenn spoke about how Mangold embodied the heart and soul of the team. He mentioned the difficulty of learning about his passing due to Mangold’s character.
Rex Ryan, former Jets head coach, was visibly emotional on ESPN’s “Sunday NFL Countdown” discussing Mangold’s impact. Ryan recalled Mangold’s toughness and loyalty, especially in moments when the player competed through injury, wanting to support his coach.
Weeks before his death, Mangold had posted on social media expressing the urgent need for a kidney donor. Diagnosed in 2006 with a genetic defect that caused his kidney disease, Mangold explained that, after a difficult summer, he was on dialysis and searching for a donor.
Selected by the Jets in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, Mangold became one of the NFL’s premier centers. He was named to the Pro Bowl seven times and clinched three All-Pro honors. Additionally, he entered the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2022. He was also nominated for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026. This nomination was alongside 128 other modern players.
Ohio State’s football program expressed deep sadness over Mangold’s death, extending condolences to his family and friends. Johnson, on behalf of the entire Jets organization, sent sympathies to Mangold’s wife Jenny and their four children. He emphasized that Nick Mangold “will always be a Jet”.
