Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold, a seven-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, died at age 41 from complications with chronic kidney disease on Oct. 25. The team announced his death the following morning; Mangold battled the illness for nearly 19 years.
His passing came less than two weeks after Mangold revealed that he had chronic kidney disease caused by a genetic defect that was diagnosed in 2006. He was currently undergoing dialysis while awaiting a type-O kidney donor.
“I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time,” Mangold wrote in an Oct. 14 message addressed to the Jets and The Ohio State University communities.
Mangold expressed gratitude for his supporters, adding that the situation “reminded [him] how lucky [he is] to have such an amazing family, friends, and community behind me.”
Drafted 29th overall in the 2006 National Football League (NFL) Draft out of Ohio State, Mangold spent his entire 11-year career with the Jets, becoming a cornerstone of one of the most stable offensive lines in franchise history. Alongside left tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson, the Centerville, Ohio native anchored New York’s offense through four winning seasons and two AFC Championship Game appearances between 2006 and 2010.
Mangold started 171 games, including seven postseason contests and was known for his durability; he started every game from 2006 until an injury in 2011 ended his streak at 89 consecutive starts. His accolades include seven Pro Bowl selections, two First-Team All-Pro honors (2009, 2010) and a Second-Team All-Pro selection (2011). The franchise inducted him into its Ring of Honor in 2022, where he famously toasted fans at MetLife Stadium with a beer during his halftime ceremony. Earlier this year, he advanced to the semifinals for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
“[Mangold was] the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an era of Jets football,” Jets owner and chairman Woody Johnson said.
Vice Chairman Christopher Johnson described him as “the embodiment of consistency, strength, and leadership,” praising his “character, humility, and humor off the field.”
Mangold was “a true Jet through and through… the heart and soul of this team,” Jets Head Coach Aaron Glenn said.
Former Coach Rex Ryan, who led the Jets from 2009 to 2014, fought back tears on ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown as he recounted Mangold’s impact and legacy.
“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 last game, Mangold’s injured — and he comes to me and he says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ That’s what I remember about this kid. He was awesome… just way too young.”
Teammates also shared heartfelt tributes.
“I’ll miss you and forever cherish our moments in the locker room,” Darrelle Revis wrote on X. “Love you buddy.”
Jay Feely, a former Jets kicker, called Mangold “a natural leader, thoughtful, kind and larger than life.”
Known for his long blond hair, signature beard and a No. 74 jersey, Mangold remained a beloved figure among Jets fans even after his retirement. He participated in numerous charitable events and often dressed as Santa Claus during the team’s annual holiday celebrations for children.
Mangold also coached the Delbarton School varsity offensive line in Morristown, New Jersey, where colleagues recalled his patience and humor with young athletes.
Mangold is survived by his wife Jennifer, their four children — Matthew, Eloise, Thomas and Charlotte — and his sister, Holley.
