Former New York Jets Star Nick Mangold Dies at 41 from Kidney Disease

Nick Mangold, a former New York Jets center and seven-time Pro Bowler, died at age 41 due to complications from chronic kidney disease. Diagnosed in 2006 with a rare genetic kidney defect, Mangold had been on dialysis and publicly sought a kidney donor with type O blood shortly before his death. Jets owner Woody Johnson praised Mangold as the "heartbeat" of the team's offensive line and a beloved teammate whose leadership defined an era of Jets football. Mangold spent his entire 11-year NFL career with the Jets, earned multiple All-Pro honors, and was inducted into the Jets' Ring of Honor in 2022. Beyond football, Mangold contributed to New Jersey high school football as a coach, reflecting his commitment to the community. Tributes from former coaches, teammates, and Ohio State, where Mangold played college football, highlight the profound impact he had both on and off the field.