Former New York Jets star Nick Mangold, one of the most respected centers of his generation, has died at age 41 following complications from kidney disease, the team announced.
Mangold, who spent his entire 11-year NFL career with the Jets, had recently shared that he was undergoing dialysis while awaiting a kidney transplant. Mangold wrote in a letter to the Jets community last month: “In 2006, I was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant. I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have more time.”
Jets owner Woody Johnson paid tribute to Mangold, calling him “the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an era of Jets football.” Johnson added that “off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family. On behalf of the entire Johnson family and the New York Jets organization, we offer our sincere condolences to Jenny, their four children — Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte — as well as to Nick’s extended family, friends, and all who loved him. Nick Mangold will forever be a Jet.”
Jets Vice Chairman Christopher Johnson also reflected on Mangold’s impact, describing him as “the embodiment of consistency, strength, and leadership. For over a decade, he anchored 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 humor off the field that made him unforgettable.”
Mangold was first-round pick out of Ohio State in 2006, who also shared their condolences in a social media statement: “The Ohio State football program is saddened by the news of Nick Mangold’s passing and sends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”
Mangold immediately established himself as a cornerstone of the Jets’ offense, staring in all 16 games as a rookie and going on to become one of the most durable and dominant centers in the NFL — missing only four starts during his first ten seasons. Known for his toughness and leadership, Mangold was named to seven Pro Bowls, earned First-Team All-Pro honors twice, and was a Second-Team All-Pro once.
During his time with the Jets, Mangold helped lead the team to three playoff appearances, including back-to-back AFC Championship Games in 2009 and 2010 under head coach Rex Ryan. Reacting to the news of his death on ESPN, Ryan fought back tears while sharing: “It’s brutal, such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him all six years with the Jets. It was obvious I was getting fired and in my last game, Mangold was injured — like, injured. And he comes to me and says ‘I’m playing this game.’ He was going to play for me. He was awesome, and just way too young. I feel so bad for his wife and family.”
Mangold’s dedication and grit made him both a locker-room leader and a fan favorite. After an ankle injury limited him to eight games in 2016, Mangold was released the following offseason and retired from football in 2018. Four years later, in June 2022, he was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor alongside longtime teammates D’Brickashaw Ferguson and Darrelle Revis, cementing his place among franchise greats.
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