tv Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold, one of the franchise’s most respected and beloved players, has passed away at the age of 41 after battling kidney disease. Mangold died Saturday night due to complications from the illness, just days after publicly sharing his struggle and need for a kidney transplant

Nick Mangold, former center and one of the New York Jets’ most iconic players, has tragically passed away at the age of 41 after a long battle with kidney disease. The announcement was made by the team on Sunday, marking a somber moment for Jets fans and the football community alike.

Team owner Woody Johnson released a heartfelt statement honoring Mangold’s legacy, not only as an exceptional player but also as a remarkable human being. “Nick was more than a legendary center,” Johnson said. “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 had openly shared his kidney disease diagnosis earlier this month, revealing that he had been dealing with a genetic defect since 2006 which ultimately led to chronic kidney disease. Despite undergoing dialysis and actively searching for a kidney transplant, his condition sadly worsened. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have more time,” Mangold wrote in a moving post on social media. His family was unable to provide a kidney match, prompting him to reach out to the Jets community and fans in hopes of finding a donor with type O blood. He expressed deep gratitude for his family’s support and remained positive through the ordeal.

During his illustrious 11-year career—all spent with the Jets—Mangold earned seven Pro Bowl nods and was a two-time first-team All-Pro. In 2022, he was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor and was nominated for the NFL Hall of Fame’s Modern Era class of 2025, solidifying his place among the franchise’s all-time greats.

Nick Mangold’s leadership, talent, and personality left an indelible mark on the Jets and the NFL. His legacy will continue to inspire both teammates and fans for years to come.