One of the greatest offensive linemen in New York Jets history and a former star at Ohio State, Nick Mangold, has tragically passed away at 41 years old after failing in his pursuit of a kidney transplant.
On Sunday morning, before their Week 8 clash against the Cincinnati Bengals, the Jets announced that Mangold had sadly lost his battle with chronic kidney disease.
We are heartbroken to share the news of Nick Mangold’s sudden passing.
— New York Jets (@nyjets) October 26, 2025
“It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Nick Mangold, a true legend of our franchise and a cherished member of the Jets family,” Vice Chairman Christopher Johnson said in a statement.
“Nick’s legacy is not only measured in Pro Bowls and accolades, but in the way he inspired those around him. He was a leader in every sense of the word, and his presence will be deeply missed. On behalf of the entire organization, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Jenny and their children, as well as Nick’s entire family and loved ones,” Johnson added. “Nick, my friend, we will all miss you.”
Earlier this month, Mangold revealed that his 20-year battle with a genetic defect had hit a pivotal point, and that he was put on dialysis as he sought a life-saving kidney transplant.
“Unfortunately, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood,” he wrote in a post on social media.
“If you are willing to find out if you could be a match and donate a kidney to me, please go to this site https://columbiasurgery.org/kidney-transplant and click the link to indicate I WANT TO DONATE MY KIDNEY. Use my full name, Nicholas Mangold, and my birthday, 1/13/1984. I am deeply grateful to anyone who would consider donating.”
The center was the 29th overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft and played all 11 of his seasons in the league with the Jets. Earning Pro Bowl honors seven times and first-team All-Pro honors twice. For the Buckeyes, he was a first-team All-American and first-team All-Big Ten selection in 2005. The former team captain also went into the OSU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2023.
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After earning his journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos served as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sucka ... More about Jason Burgos