Nick Mangold, the beloved New York Jets center who anchored the team’s offensive line for over a decade, died Saturday night, October 25, 2025, from complications of kidney disease. He was 41 years old. The New York Jets announced his death on Sunday, just hours before the team secured its first win of the season against the Cincinnati Bengals.
The seven-time Pro Bowl selection had publicly revealed his health battle less than two weeks earlier in an emotional letter to the Jets community. Mangold disclosed that he was diagnosed with a genetic defect in 2006 that led to chronic kidney disease. After what he described as a rough summer, he began undergoing dialysis treatments while searching for a kidney transplant donor. In his October 14 message, Mangold expressed that while he always knew this day would come, he thought he would have more time.
Jets owner Woody Johnson memorialized the franchise legend, stating that “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.” Johnson further emphasized that Mangold’s wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of the extended Jets family.
Mangold began his professional journey as the 29th overall selection in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft out of Ohio State University. He immediately made an impact, teaming with left tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson to transform the Jets’ offensive line into one of the league’s most formidable units. Together, they helped produce three playoff teams, including two AFC Championship Game appearances, and four winning seasons from 2006 to 2010.
The Centerville, Ohio, native proved to be remarkably durable throughout his career. He started every game from 2006 until early in the 2011 season, accumulating 89 consecutive starts, including seven playoff games, before a high ankle sprain against Jacksonville temporarily sidelined him. After missing just two games, he returned to start the next 59 contests. In total, Mangold started 171 games for the Jets over 11 seasons.
His exceptional play earned him first-team All-Pro honors following the 2009 and 2010 seasons, and second-team All-Pro recognition in 2011. He was selected to seven Pro Bowl rosters throughout his career, one shy of the franchise record held by Pro Football Hall of Fame tackle Winston Hill. The Jets inducted Mangold into their Ring of Honor on September 25, 2022, during a halftime ceremony at MetLife Stadium, alongside Ferguson and cornerback Darrelle Revis.
Former Jets coach Rex Ryan, who led the team from 2009 to 2014, became emotional while discussing Mangold’s death during ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown. Ryan recalled that during his final game as coach, when it was obvious he would be fired, the injured Mangold insisted on playing, telling Ryan he wanted to play for him. Ryan described Mangold as an awesome young man taken far too young.
Former teammate D’Brickashaw Ferguson reflected on their deep bond that extended beyond the football field. Ferguson noted that a significant part of their lives was spent together on the field, but their connection grew through family events, weddings and shared life experiences. He expressed gratitude for having had the opportunity to do life with Mangold and his family during such difficult times.
Linebacker Bart Scott, who played alongside Mangold from 2009 to 2012, emphasized that teammates represent the closest thing to family due to tireless hours, pressure situations and shared trust. Scott praised Mangold as representing the best in professionalism, humility and performance, particularly highlighting his ability to see everyone’s value and willingness to meet people where they were.
Former quarterback Mark Sanchez, who shared the field with Mangold for several seasons, broke his social media silence following his recent arrest to honor his fallen teammate. Sanchez described Mangold as more than a teammate, calling him a big brother who introduced him to the NFL and showed him the ropes. He remembered Mangold as a role model, a great father, and a devoted husband.
After retiring following the 2016 season, Mangold remained deeply connected to the Jets organization. His distinctive No. 74 jersey, flowing blond hair, and famous beard became regular fixtures at team and fan events. He frequently appeared at MetLife Stadium and maintained his commitment to the Jets community. Last November, he expressed how special it was to finish his career with only one team, praising the passionate and loyal fan base.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in seven U.S. adults suffers from chronic kidney disease, totaling around 35.5 million people. The condition often progresses slowly and can appear asymptomatic in its initial stages. About 90,000 people in the United States are currently waiting for kidney transplants, with roughly 12 people dying each day while waiting.
Mangold recently cleared the second hurdle toward becoming a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026, named among 52 Modern-Era players. That list will be reduced to 25 semifinalists, then 20 finalists, before four to eight new members are announced the day before Super Bowl LX.
He is survived by his wife Jenny and their four children: Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. Jets Vice Chairman Christopher Johnson summarized Mangold’s legacy, noting that he embodied consistency, strength, and leadership while anchoring the offensive line with unmatched skill and determination for over a decade, earning respect from teammates, opponent,s and fans alike.
