Nick Mangold, the dominant center who anchored the New York Jets’ offensive line for more than a decade and became one of the franchise’s most respected figures, died Saturday night from complications of chronic kidney disease. He was 41. The Jets announced his passing in a team statement Sunday.
A sudden, public battle
Mangold had revealed earlier in October that he was battling chronic kidney disease — a condition he said stemmed from a genetic defect diagnosed in 2006 — and had been undergoing dialysis. With no family member able to donate, he and the Jets had publicly appealed for a donor with type O blood. His death came less than two weeks after the announcement of his transplant need.
Career and legacy
A first-round pick out of Ohio State (29th overall in 2006), Mangold spent his entire 11-season NFL career with the Jets (2006–2016). He played 171 games, earned seven Pro Bowl selections and was twice named an All-Pro. Known for toughness and consistency — missing only a handful of games through his prime — Mangold was widely celebrated as a leader both on and off the field. He was inducted into the Jets Ring of Honor in 2022 and had been part of conversations about eventual Pro Football Hall of Fame candidacy.
Career highlights
▪️11 seasons with the New York Jets (2006–2016).
▪️Seven Pro Bowl selections; two first-team All-Pro nods.
▪️Jets Ring of Honor inductee, 2022.
Tributes and reaction
Team officials, former teammates and fans responded immediately to the news, praising Mangold’s leadership, character and loyalty to the Jets organization. In their announcement, the Jets said Mangold “will forever be a Jet,” and officials spoke of his lasting impact in the locker room and community. Public tributes flooded social media and the sports world as details of his illness and recent donor appeal circulated.
Personal life
Mangold is survived by his wife, Jenny, and their four children. He was widely known for his ties to Ohio — a standout at Centerville High School and Ohio State — and for family connections that included his sister Holley, who competed in Olympic weightlifting.
What we know about his illness
Mangold had disclosed that a genetic defect discovered in 2006 had resulted in progressive kidney disease. This October he said his condition had advanced to the point where he required dialysis and a transplant; the public appeal for a donor was intended to broaden the search beyond immediate family. Officials have described his death as due to complications related to chronic kidney disease.
Looking ahead
The Jets organization is expected to release further details regarding memorial plans and tributes in the coming days. Former teammates, coaches and the Ohio State community have also signaled they will honor Mangold’s life and contributions to the game.