New York Jets Legend Nick Mangold Dies Weeks After Kidney Plea

This one’s hard to take in. Just a short time ago, we shared that former New York Jets center Nick Mangold was searching for a kidney donor, opening up about his fight with kidney disease and hoping for a match. Now, barely two weeks later, comes the news no one was ready for: Nick has passed away at just 41 years old.

A Decade of Strength and Loyalty on the Field

If you were a Jets fan during his years on the field, you remember Nick. Tough, dependable, loyal. He was the kind of player that could be counted on every single game. Drafted out of Ohio State in 2006, he spent his entire career with the Jets. For more than a decade, he was the anchor of that offensive line and one of the most respected players in the league.

Nick Faced His Health Battle with Strength and Honesty

It’s hard to believe that just days ago, Nick was reaching out to fans and the community, asking for a kidney donor with type O blood. He was open about his health battle and determined to keep fighting. That’s just who he was, strong, honest, and real.

A Teammate, Leader, and Friend Remembered with Love

The news of his passing has hit hard. Former teammates, coaches, and fans are sharing stories of Nick not just as a player, but as a person, someone who could make them laugh, who showed up for people, and who led with heart. Jets owner Woody Johnson said it best: Nick wasn’t just a center; he was the heartbeat of the team.

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The Family Man Behind the Football Legend

Off the field, Nick was a husband and a dad. He leaves behind his wife, Jenny, and their four kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. Everything people are saying about him now paints a picture of a man who loved deeply, worked hard, and made everyone around him better.

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Gallery Credit: Traci Taylor