Nick Mangold, known for his distinctive long, blond hair and bushy beard, was a standout player for the New York Jets. A two-time first-team All-Pro center who played a key role in leading the Jets to the AFC championship game twice, Mangold passed away at the age of 41 due to complications from kidney disease, as announced by the team on Sunday.
Having revealed his battle with kidney disease on social media just two weeks before his passing, Mangold sought a kidney transplant publicly, as he did not have any relatives who were suitable donors. Diagnosed with a genetic defect in 2006 leading to chronic kidney disease, he had been undergoing dialysis while awaiting a transplant.
Remembered not only for his on-field prowess but also for his leadership and toughness, Mangold was hailed as the heartbeat of the Jets’ offensive line for over a decade. The Jets paid tribute to him with a moment of silence before their game against the Cincinnati Bengals, which they won 39-38 for their first victory of the season.
A first-round draft pick in 2006, Mangold spent his entire 11-season career with the Jets, earning Pro Bowl honors seven times. He was instrumental in the team’s near Super Bowl runs in 2009 and 2010 and was inducted into the Jets’ ring of honor in 2022.
Regarded as a Hall of Fame candidate, Mangold was among the modern-era players who advanced in the voting for the Pro Football Hall of Fame class. He was a stalwart presence on the Jets’ offensive line, starting every game in his first five seasons and missing only four games in his first decade before an injury limited his final season in 2016.
Mangold’s impact extended beyond the field, as he was cherished by teammates and fans for his character, humility, and humor. Survived by his wife, Jennifer, and their four children, Mangold leaves behind a lasting legacy both on and off the field, with his No. 74 jersey remaining a symbol of his enduring influence even years after his retirement.
