NY Jets Nick Mangold’s Sudden Death at 41 Sends Shockwaves Through NFL Community [WATCH]

Nick Mangold, a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and longtime center for the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41.

We are heartbroken to share the news of Nick Mangold’s sudden passing.

— New York Jets (@nyjets) October 26, 2025

The news comes just two weeks after Mangold revealed that he was battling chronic kidney disease and was in urgent need of a transplant.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” Jets owner 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 played college football at Ohio State University, where he was part of the Buckeyes’ 2003 national championship team.

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He earned first-team All-American honors in 2005 before being selected by the Jets in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft.

He quickly made an impact in the league, earning a spot on the NFL’s All-Rookie team in 2006.

His first Pro Bowl appearance came in 2008, followed by three All-Pro selections — first-team in 2009 and 2010, and second-team in 2011.

Mangold became one of the most durable and respected offensive linemen in the NFL during his 11 seasons with the Jets.

After the 2016 season, the Jets released Mangold as part of a roster rebuild.

He retired from football in 2018 after signing a one-day contract to end his career with the team that drafted him.

In 2022, Mangold was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor, cementing his place among the franchise’s all-time greats.

Earlier this month, Mangold shared his health struggle in a message to fans, revealing that he had been diagnosed with a genetic defect leading to chronic kidney disease in 2006.

“I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time,” he wrote.

“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.”

He continued, “I am deeply grateful to anyone that would consider donating.

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.”

Mangold ended his message on a hopeful note: “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.”

Jets Vice Chairman Christopher Johnson remembered Mangold as a leader both on and off the field.

“Nick was the embodiment of consistency, strength, and leadership,” Johnson said.

“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.”

Former Jets head coach Rex Ryan became emotional while remembering Mangold during ESPN’s Sunday broadcast.

“It’s brutal. Such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets,” Ryan said.

He recalled that Mangold insisted on playing through injury during Ryan’s final game as head coach.

“My last game, Mangold’s injured. Like, injured. And he comes to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me. That’s what I remember about this kid. He was awesome and just way too young.”

Rex Ryan mourns the loss of his former player Nick Mangold following his death from kidney disease. pic.twitter.com/xhpJJ0yue3

— ESPN (@espn) October 26, 2025

Mangold is survived by his wife, Jennifer, and their four children.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

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