New York Jets legend Nick Mangold has passed away at the young age of 41 after battling kidney disease.
Mangold was drafted 29th overall in the 2006 NFL draft joining another Jets legend D’Brickashaw Fergosoun, as the first pair of offensive linemen drafted in the first round since 1975. Almost instantly, Mangold became one of the best Centers in football, earning 7 Pro Bowls and 2 first team all pro selections.
Mangold became the anchor for the Jets offensive line for a decade, as well as their Heart and Soul during his time donning Green and White. Mangold helped Gang Green make two AFC championship games in back-to-back years in 2009 and 2010.
Not only was he a beloved player on the field by the fans, he was an amazing human off the field, and to this day is one of the most beloved Jets of all time, an honor which he embraced when he played and especially when he retired.
Former Jets Head Coach Rex Ryan broke down in tears on TV during ESPN’s “Sunday Countdown” show after finding out about Mangold’s passing. Ryan coached Mangold from 2009-2014. Ryan shared a heart-warming story, stating when it became obvious he was going to be fired, Mangold insisted on playing through an injury for Rex’s last game as Jets head coach.
Mangold was released in 2017, and continued his loyalty to the organization, taking a year off of football instead of signing with one of the Super Bowl contending teams at the time.
Mangold would retire from football in 2018, signing a 1 day contract to retire in the Green and White. Mangold played all 11 seasons with the Jets.
Two weeks before his passing Mangold issued out a statement he was looking for a kidney donor. He had written to Jets fans across his social media stating he had been diagnosed with a degenerative kidney disease in 2006.
“Nick was more than a legendary center,” Jets Owner and President Woody Johnson stated in a press release. “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.”
Former teammates as well as current Jets posted thoughts and prayers across social media.
During the Oct. 26th Jets post-game, Johnson ended his statement with saying, “Nick Mangold will Forever Be A Jet.”
During said game, the Jets defeated the Bengals, 39-38, a win for Nick Mangold. Mangold will be posthumously made a Pro Football Hall of Famer, an honor he deserves. Mangold is also a Member of the Jets Ring of Honor, which he was inducted in 2022. Jets Owner Woody Johnson issued a statement on the impact Mangold had to the Jets Organization.
As a lifelong Jets fan you will be missed, Once a Jet, always a Jet. Rest in Peace Nick Mangold.
