NFL fans across the country are in shock following the sudden death of New York Jets legend Nick Mangold, who passed away on October 26, 2025, at the age of 41.
The news comes just two weeks after Mangold publicly shared that he had been battling chronic kidney disease, a condition caused by a genetic defect he had lived with for nearly two decades.
The announcement of his passing has left a profound impact on fans, teammates, and the broader NFL community, highlighting not only his talent on the field but also the humanity and strength he displayed off it.
A Public Revelation of a Personal Battle. Earlier this month, Mangold opened up about his health struggles in a heartfelt letter posted on social media, addressing both his former teams and the communities that had supported him throughout his career. In the message, he reflected on the difficult journey he had faced since being diagnosed in 2006 with a genetic defect that ultimately led to chronic kidney disease. “To my NY Jets & Ohio State Buckeye communities,” he wrote, “This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health. In 2006, I was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant. I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.”
Mangold candidly shared that none of his family members were able to donate a kidney, prompting him to reach out to the wider community for help. “Unfortunately, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”
Despite the challenges, Mangold remained grateful for the support surrounding him. “Most of all, I’m thankful for my family, who have been my rock every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and community behind me. 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. With Gratitude, Nick Mangold.”
From Humble Beginnings to NFL Stardom
Mangold’s rise to become one of the NFL’s premier centers began unexpectedly in seventh grade. When the starting center on his junior high team broke his hand, the coach urgently needed someone to snap the ball. Mangold volunteered, recalling in a 2009 interview with the AP, “I said, ‘Shoot, I’ll try.’ I’ve been a center ever since.”
From that moment, Mangold’s talent, work ethic, and football intelligence quickly became apparent. He played at Ohio State University, where he developed into one of the most respected offensive linemen in college football. Drafted by the New York Jets in 2006, Mangold would go on to spend his entire 11-year NFL career with the franchise, earning recognition not only for his dominance on the field but also for his leadership, professionalism, and charisma in the locker room.
A Beloved Teammate and Family Man
Mangold’s personality off the field was as cherished as his play on it. Known for his sharp sense of humor, he often lightened the mood in the Jets’ locker room, strolling through in a plush green robe embroidered with his name and number, 74. Former teammate Damien Woody remembered, “Nick was a jokester man, he always kept everything funny. He always had those one-liners that would get you in the moment. Man, he was just such a great dude. He was a family guy that would give you the shirt off his back. You couldn’t ask for a better man, a better teammate.”
On the field, Mangold’s achievements were remarkable. The 6-foot-305-pound center earned seven Pro Bowl selections and was named First-Team All-Pro in consecutive seasons, 2009 and 2010. In 2010, he became the highest-paid player at his position when he signed a seven-year contract with the Jets, potentially worth up to $55 million—a testament to his elite performance and importance to the team.
Honored by the Franchise
Following his retirement in 2016, Mangold’s legacy continued to be celebrated. In 2022, he was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor, a lasting tribute to his immense contributions to the franchise and recognition of the respect he earned from teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Jets owner Woody Johnson reflected on Mangold’s impact, saying:
“Nick was more than a legendary center. 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.”
A Lasting Legacy
Mangold is survived by his wife, Jenny, and their four children: Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His passing leaves a profound void in the NFL community, among Jets fans, and in the hearts of those who knew him personally. While his life was tragically cut short, the impact he made—through his athletic prowess, his humor, his leadership, and his love for family—will be remembered for generations.
Nick Mangold’s story is one of talent, perseverance, and humanity. From the moment he stepped on the field as a young seventh grader to becoming one of the most respected and beloved figures in NFL history, his journey exemplified resilience, dedication, and heart. Even in his final weeks, as he courageously shared his battle with kidney disease, Mangold continued to inspire those around him, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond football.
