Former NFL Star Dies At 41 Shortly After Plea For Kidney Donor

Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold, a legendary fan-favorite player for the franchise, has died due to complications from kidney disease.

He was 41.

Mangold played for the Jets from 2006 to 2016 and was a seven-time All-Pro recipient.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” said Jets Chairman Woody Johnson.

“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,” he added.

Mangold announced earlier this month that he was diagnosed in 2006 with a rare genetic disorder and undergoing kidney dialysis.

He also said he was searching for a kidney donor.

JUST IN: Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold has passed away at the age of 41 after a battle with chronic kidney disease.

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he was undergoing kidney dialysis.

Mangold said he was searching for a kidney because no one in his family had the… pic.twitter.com/hurtWoQ1Hs

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) October 26, 2025

“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 you, our NY Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood,” Mangold wrote.

pic.twitter.com/4z5TZtqACb

— Nick Mangold (@nickmangold) October 14, 2025

ESPN shared more:

Mangold is among 52 modern-era candidates currently being considered for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

After an All-America career at Ohio State, Mangold was a first-round draft pick in 2006. That year, the Jets also drafted left tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson in the first round.

Known as “Nick & Brick,” they became the leaders of an offensive line that paved the way for playoff appearances in 2006, 2009 and 2010 — the franchise’s last trip to the postseason — under coach Rex Ryan.

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“It’s brutal. Such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years [I was coach] with the Jets,” Ryan, now an ESPN analyst said Sunday, fighting through tears. “I remember, it was obvious I was getting fired, my last game Mangold is injured — like injured — and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he went in and played for me. That’s what I remember about this kid. He was awesome and just way too young. I feel so bad for his wife and family.”

Known for his toughness and cerebral approach, Mangold became one of the most decorated centers in the NFL. He made seven Pro Bowls and was twice named a first-team All-Pro. In 2009, he was a calming influence for rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez, who overcame his turnover issues to help the Jets to the first of two straight appearances in the AFC Championship Game.

“Rex Ryan mourns the loss of his former player Nick Mangold following his death from kidney disease,” ESPN noted.

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

“The Ohio State football program is saddened by the news of Nick Mangold’s passing and sends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends,” Ohio State Football wrote.

The Ohio State football program is saddened by the news of Nick Mangold’s passing and sends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/cvYMOGJ5iC

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) October 26, 2025

The New York Post noted:

Mangold retired after the 2016 season and was inducted into the Jets Ring of Honor in 2022. The Jets are facing the Bengals on Sunday in Cincinnati, not far from where Mangold grew up in Centerville, Ohio. He later starred at Ohio State.

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He is survived by his wife, Jenny, and their four children — Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte.