Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold has passed away at the age of 41, the team confirmed on Sunday. The beloved Jets icon, known for his toughness and leadership, died due to complications from kidney disease, less than two weeks after publicly revealing his need for a kidney transplant.
🚨 #BREAKING: Former NY Jets star Nick Mangold has passed away at 41 while awaiting a kidney transplant. 🖤 A huge loss to the NFL and Jets community.#NickMangold #RIPNickMangold #NYJets #NFLFamily #RestInPeace pic.twitter.com/EYioRQSp4W
— LoudFact (@loudfactcom) October 26, 2025
Mangold’s Final Health Battle
Earlier this month, Mangold shared that he had been diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder in 2006 and had been undergoing dialysis. He appealed to the Jets and Ohio State communities for a kidney donor, noting that his family members were not compatible with his type O blood.
“This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health,” Mangold said in his statement on October 14.
Despite his illness, Mangold remained positive and hopeful. In his last public message, he wrote:
“I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time. While this has been a tough stretch, I’m staying positive and focused on the path ahead. I’m looking forward to better days and getting back to full strength soon. I’ll see you all at MetLife Stadium & The Shoe very soon.”
Tributes Pour In for the Jets Star
Jets owner Woody Johnson paid heartfelt tribute to Mangold, calling him “more than a legendary centre.”
“He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an era of Jets football,” Johnson said. “Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”
Former Jets coach Rex Ryan also remembered Mangold fondly: “It’s brutal. Such a great young man. I remember my last game – it was obvious I was getting fired – and Mangold was injured, really injured. He came to me and said, ‘I’m playing this game.’ That’s what I remember about this kid. He was awesome and just way too young. I feel so bad for his wife and family.”
Former quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick added: “Nick was a great man in every aspect … an all-time teammate and a great friend. Heartbroken for his family.”
Nick Mangold’s Illustrious Career
Mangold was drafted by the New York Jets in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft after a standout career at Ohio State University. Over 11 seasons, he became one of the league’s most respected centers, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and two First-Team All-Pro honors.
Known for his intelligence and consistency, Mangold helped lead the Jets to playoff appearances in 2006, 2009, and 2010. His partnership with left tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson — famously known as “Nick & Brick” — became a cornerstone of the Jets’ offensive line.
After his retirement, Mangold was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2022, an event that showcased his humor and humility. True to form, he celebrated by cracking open a beer on stage, delighting fans at MetLife Stadium.
Life After Football
Following his NFL career, Mangold transitioned into coaching, becoming an assistant football coach at Delbarton School in Morristown, New Jersey.
“You get to mould boys into men and teach the game of football – but also teach them a little bit about life as you go along,” he told the New York Post in 2024.
A Legacy Beyond the Field
Mangold’s strength, humor, and loyalty made him one of the most admired players in Jets history. His story has inspired fans and players alike — a legacy of grit, leadership, and heart that transcends football.
He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Richmond (Jenny), and their four children: Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. The couple married in April 2007.
