Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold, one of the franchise’s most popular and decorated players, has died, the team announced Sunday. He was 41.
The Jets shared in a statement on social media that Mangold passed away Saturday night due to complications from kidney disease. His death comes less than two weeks after the two-time All-Pro selection publicly revealed his diagnosis and the urgent need for a kidney transplant.
Mangold had announced on social media that he had kidney disease and required a transplant. Without any relatives able to donate, he reached out to the public in a heartfelt request for a donor with type O blood.
“I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time,” Mangold wrote in a message addressed to the Jets and Ohio State communities. “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.”
Mangold was diagnosed with a genetic defect in 2006 that led to chronic kidney disease. He had been on dialysis while awaiting a transplant.
Jets owner Woody Johnson paid tribute to Mangold, 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 first-round draft pick of the Jets in 2006 out of Ohio State, Mangold was selected to the Pro Bowl seven times during his career. In 2022, he was honored by being enshrined in the Jets’ Ring of Honor.
Nick Mangold is survived by his wife, Jennifer, and their four children: Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte.
https://www.wptv.com/sports/former-jets-center-nick-mangold-dies-at-41-less-than-2-weeks-after-announcing-he-had-kidney-disease