Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold has died at the age of 41 due to complications from kidney disease. His passing comes a few weeks after he publicly appealed for a life-saving kidney transplant. Mangold, a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time All-Pro, was one of the most accomplished players in Jets history and a respected figure across the NFL.
What Did Peyton Manning Say After Nick Mangold’s Death?
Former quarterback and two-time Super Bowl champion Peyton Manning paid tribute to Mangold on Instagram, talking about their time on the field as opponents and teammates at the Pro Bowls.
“Incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of Nick Mangold,” Manning wrote. “I was fortunate enough to play in several Pro Bowls with him. A great person gone too soon. Sending my thoughts and prayers to his loved ones. Rest in peace, Nick.”
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Mangold revealed his health challenges on Oct. 14, explaining that a genetic disorder diagnosed in 2006 had led to chronic kidney disease. He said he had begun dialysis treatment and was seeking a donor match, noting that his type O blood made finding one difficult.
“While this has been a tough stretch, I’m staying positive and focused on the path ahead,” Mangold said, via NFL.com. “I’m looking forward to better days and getting back to full strength soon. I’ll see you all at MetLife Stadium & The Shoe very soon.”
A first-round pick from Ohio State in 2006, Mangold spent his entire 11-season career with the Jets, anchoring one of the NFL’s most consistent offensive lines. He started 164 games, helping lead the team to AFC Championship appearances in 2009 and 2010, and missed only four games in his first 10 seasons.
Mangold was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2022 and was among the 52 modern-era nominees for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026. His seven Pro Bowl selections trail only Pro Football Hall of Famer Winston Hill, who has eight.
Jets chairman Woody Johnson described him as “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 … Nick Mangold will forever be a Jet.”
Mangold is survived by his wife, Jenny, and their four children: Matthew, Eloise, Thomas and Charlotte.
