Former New York Jets All-Pro center Nick Mangold has died at the age of 41 due to complications from kidney disease, the team confirmed on Sunday.
According to the Jets, Mangold passed away on Saturday night after battling chronic kidney disease for nearly 19 years. He had been undergoing dialysis and had recently appealed publicly for a kidney donor.
“Nick was more than a legendary center,” Jets Chairman Woody Johnson said in a statement. “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. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”
Mangold’s death comes just a day before the Jets’ scheduled game against the Cincinnati Bengals, as the team continues to search for its first win of the season.
Earlier this month, Mangold shared a heartfelt message on social media, opening up about his health struggles and asking for help from the public.
“This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health,” he wrote. “In 2006, I was diagnosed with a genetic defect that led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant.”
He continued, “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time. Unfortunately, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to our NY Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”
Mangold was drafted by the Jets in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft after a successful college career at Ohio State, where he helped the Buckeyes win a national championship in 2002.
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During his 11-season career with the Jets, Mangold became one of the most respected centers in the NFL. He was selected to seven Pro Bowls, named first-team All-Pro twice, and second-team All-Pro once. His leadership on and off the field earned him a place in the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2022.
The Ohio State football program also expressed its condolences following the news of his passing. “The Ohio State football program is saddened by the news of Nick Mangold’s passing and sends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends,” the school said in a statement.
Mangold had recently been named one of 128 modern-era nominees for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
Woody Johnson concluded his statement by saying, “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.”
