Nick Mangold, a seven-time Pro Bowl center for the New York Jets and former Ohio State star, died on October 25, 2025, in Ohio.
The Jets great died from complications of chronic kidney disease.
Only weeks ago, Mangold went public in his search for a kidney donor. He was 41 years old.
The Jets selected Mangold in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft and he quickly endeared himself to the organization and its fans with his toughness and everyman persona. Mangold had a trademark look with his long hair, backwards hat and bushy blonde beard.
Mangold spent 11 seasons with the Jets and was a key piece of the 2009 and 2010 teams that went to the AFC Championship game. Mangold was twice selected as an All-Pro and went to the Pro Bowl seven times.
“Nick was more than a legendary center,” 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 wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”
Mangold retired after the 2016 season and was inducted into the Jets Ring of Honor in 2022. He capped off his acceptance speech at MetLife Stadium by cracking open a beer.
Mangold’s former coach, Rex Ryan, tearfully spoke of the loss.
A teary-eyed Rex Ryan reflects on the passing of his former center, Nick Mangold.
Devastating.
pic.twitter.com/ItgvQt9Sj0 https://t.co/vVlw5Rq7lp
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) October 26, 2025
The Jet’s honored Mangold sharing, “We are heartbroken to share the news of Nick Mangold’s sudden passing.”
We are heartbroken to share the news of Nick Mangold’s sudden passing.
— New York Jets (@nyjets) October 26, 2025
Mangold’s alma mater, Ohio State, shared, “The Ohio State football program is saddened by the news of Nick Mangold’s passing and sends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”
The Ohio State football program is saddened by the news of Nick Mangold’s passing and sends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/cvYMOGJ5iC
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) October 26, 2025
Ohio State teammate Bobby Carpenter shared, “I thought we had more time… but I’m grateful for the 23 years I knew you.”
“Nick Mangold… greet player, great teammate…”
“But the best dude you could imagine.”
“You left a giant hole in the world.”
I thought we had more time… but I’m grateful for the 23 years I knew you
Nick Mangold… greet player, great teammate…
But the best dude you could imagine.
You left a giant hole in the world pic.twitter.com/Onij7mzG8f
— Bobby Carpenter (@Bcarp3) October 26, 2025