The NFL Community just lost one of the best players in recent New York Jets history.
Retired center Nick Mangold, who was instrumental to their success for eleven years, has passed away at the age of 41.
NFL Community Mourns Nick Mangold
This unfortunate news sparked countless tributes on social media. Former Indianapolis Colts punter Pat McAfee penned a heartfelt message on Instagram, and it didn’t take long before current and former members of the NFL community rallied in support.
Notably, that includes Matthew Stafford’s wife, Kelly, who shared a three-word message in her post.
“Rest in peace,” Stafford wrote with a broken heart emoji.
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Of course, the Jets also released a statement to talk about his passing.
“Nick was more than a legendary center,” said Jets owner and chairman Woody Johnson, per the team’s official website. “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.
What Happened to Nick Mangold?
On October 14, Mangold revealed that he had been diagnosed with a rare genetic condition that led to him suffering from chronic kidney disease. He was diagnosed near the same time he entered the league.
“In 2006, I was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease,” Mangold wrote in his letter addressed to ‘My NY Jets community’ and shared by the team. “I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant. I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have more time.”
Following a spectacular career at Ohio State, the Jets took him in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft.
Next to fellow 2006 classmate D’Brickashaw Ferguson, he was instrumental in anchoring one of the toughest and most physical offensive lines in the game during the Rex Ryan era.
He was a two-time first-team All-Pro, a seven-time Pro Bowler, and was inducted to the team’s Ring of Honor back in 2022.
Mangold spent his entire career with the Jets, and even though the Baltimore Ravens wanted to sign him after being released, he chose not to play for another team and retired instead.
That’s just another reason why Jets fans will always hold a special place in their hearts for him.
He’s survived by his wife, Jennifer, and the four children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte.
