Former Jets Player Nick Mangold Dies at 41, Weeks After Asking NFL Fanbase for a Kidney

Nick Mangold, a former New York Jets player, has died. He was 41.

The retired NFL star’s former team announced the news of his death in a news release.

According to the Jets, Mangold died due to complications of kidney disease on Saturday, Oct. 25. The announcement came just 10 days after he had reached out to his fan base, asking for a kidney donor while undergoing dialysis.

“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. 

The New York Jets previously shared a health update on behalf of Mangold on Instagram on Oct. 14, explaining that his kidney issues began almost a decade ago.

“This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health,” said Mangold. “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,” he continued. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.”

Added the athlete: “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 community.”

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Those willing to donate a kidney, he asked, would need to have type O blood, and would be required to fill out a form from Columbia University Irving Medical Center using his full name, Nicholas Mangold, and birthday, Jan. 13, 1984.

“I am deeply grateful to anyone that would consider donating,” Mangold said at the time, then showing appreciation for his “amazing family, friends and community.”

The Ohio native was the 29th overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft out of the state. He played 171 games for the Jets and made seven Pro Bowl appearances before retiring after the 2016 season.

Following his retirement, he was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2022.

Last week, Mangold was announced as being among 52 Modern-Era players currently being considered for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

“On behalf of the entire Johnson family and the New York Jets organization, we offer our sincere condolences to Jenny, their four children — Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte — as well as to Nick’s extended family, friends, and all who loved him,” said Johnson in the New York Jets news release.

“Nick Mangold will forever be a Jet,” he added.