Nick Mangold was a standout player for the New York Jets known for his distinctive appearance with long blond hair and a thick beard. The team announced the passing of the two-time first-team All-Pro center at the age of 41 due to complications from kidney disease. Mangold had revealed his battle with kidney disease and the need for a transplant on social media just days before his death, seeking a donor with type O blood as no relatives were suitable.
Having been diagnosed with a genetic defect in 2006 leading to chronic kidney disease, Mangold had been undergoing dialysis while awaiting a transplant. The Jets’ owner, Woody Johnson, praised Mangold for his leadership and toughness on the field, calling him the “heartbeat” of the team’s offensive line for a decade. Mangold’s passing was marked by a moment of silence before the Jets’ game against the Cincinnati Bengals, where coach Aaron Glenn paid tribute to him as a true Jet and a key figure in the team.
Mangold, a first-round draft pick in 2006 and a seven-time Pro Bowl selection, played his entire 11-season career with the Jets, being instrumental in their near-Super Bowl appearances in 2009 and 2010. He was recently named as a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame and was honored by former teammates like Darrelle Revis for his impact both on and off the field. Despite his retirement in 2017, Mangold remained a beloved figure among fans and teammates, remembered for his kindness, leadership, and charitable endeavors.
Survived by his wife, Jennifer, and their four children, Mangold leaves behind a legacy of strength, consistency, and camaraderie that resonated with teammates, opponents, and fans alike. His contributions to the Jets organization were exceptional, but it was his character, humility, and humor that made him truly unforgettable in the world of football.