Jets Legend Nick Mangold Dead At 41 After Battle With Kidney Disease

Nick Mangold, a legend in New York Jets history, passed away Saturday night after suffering complications from kidney disease only two weeks following his public revealing that he was in need of a kidney transplant.

The Jets great was only 41 years old. Mangold made an announcement Oct. 14 that he was diagnosed with a genetic defect in 2006 that resulted in chronic kidney disease, per the New York Post. He stated that he experienced a “rough summer,” and while attempting to get a kidney transplant, he was undergoing dialysis. (RELATED: ‘Take My Lunch Away’: Al Michaels Implies Mid-Broadcast NFL Came After Him For Exposing Alleged Cover-Up)

“I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time,” said Mangold in a statement, per The Post.

Playing at the center position, Mangold was selected in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Jets. During his run with the franchise, Mangold was a part of three postseason teams, playing a key role that saw New York tally two appearances in the AFC Championship. Mangold was a first-team All-Pro selection twice and named to seven Pro Bowls.

We are heartbroken to share the news of Nick Mangold’s sudden passing.

— New York Jets (@nyjets) October 26, 2025

“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.”