Former New York Jets quarterback Nick Mangold died Saturday night of complications from kidney disease, the team announced Sunday. He was 41 years old.
“Nick was more than a legendary quarterback,” Jets owner Woody Johnson said in a statement. “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 intelligence, warmth and unwavering loyalty made him a treasured member of the extended Jets family.”
Mangold announced earlier this month that he had been diagnosed with a genetic defect in 2006 that left him with chronic kidney disease. He was on dialysis when he sought a transplant.
“While this has been difficult, I remain positive and focused on the road ahead,” Mangold said on Oct. 14. “I’m looking forward to better days and getting back to full strength soon. I’ll see you all at MetLife Stadium & The Shoe very soon.”
A first-round pick out of Ohio State in 2006, Mangold spent all 11 of his NFL seasons with the Jets, earning seven Pro Bowl trips and two All-Pro honors. He was the centerpiece of the Jets’ offensive line that paved the way for the Gang Green’s most recent run of back-to-back AFC Championship games in 2009 and 2010.
Mangold, who was inducted into the Jets’ Hall of Fame in 2022, was among 52 modern-day players to advance on the ballot this week for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s 2026 class.
“On behalf of the entire Johnson family and the New York Jets organization, we extend our deepest condolences to Jenny, their four children – Matthew, Eloise, Thomas and Charlotte – as well as Nick’s extended family, friends and all who loved him,” added Woody Johnson.
“Nick Mangold will forever be a Jet.”