Rachael Ray; Nick Mangold
Rachael Ray (left); Nick Mangold.
Rachael Ray shared a heartfelt tribute remembering close friend Nick Mangold
“Nick had a big heart and was a great friend,” she wrote on Instagram on Oct. 26
According to a news release from the New York Jets, Mangold died due to complications of kidney disease on Saturday, Oct. 25.
Rachael Ray is remembering her longtime friend Nick Mangold.
On Sunday, Oct. 26, the celebrity cook and TV personality shared a tribute to the former New York Jets player, who died on Saturday at age 41.
“So heartbroken over this news,” Ray wrote underneath a group photo that shows her and husband John Cusimano with the late NFL star and his wife, Jennifer Richmond.
“Nick had a big heart and was a great friend,” her message continued. “Rest in peace.”
Mangold appeared on The Rachael Ray Show multiple times, and in one clip from 2021, demonstrated how to make a barbecue chicken sandwich for football Sundays. He served as a past judge for Ray’s annual Burger Bash event at the New York City Wine & Food Festival.
Ray and Cusimano were also guests on The Exchange, the podcast Mangold hosted with friend and former teammate Mark Sanchez.
Rachael Ray Mourns Loss of Great Friend Nick Mangold
Rachael Ray Mourns Loss of Great Friend Nick Mangold
In 2017, Ray — a noted Jets fan — shared praise for Mangold when Sports Illustrated asked who her all-time favorite player on the team was.
“I'd have to say Nick Mangold because he's like a family member,” she answered. “We've been friends with the Mangolds for a very long time and I love Nick.”
According to a news release from the Jets, Mangold died due to complications of kidney disease on Saturday, Oct. 25.
Just 10 days earlier, Mangold reached out to his fan base, asking for a kidney donor while undergoing dialysis.
"Nick was more than a legendary center," said Jets Chairman Woody Johnson. "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,” Johnson added.
The team previously shared an update on behalf of Mangold on Instagram on Oct. 14,noting that his kidney issues began almost a decade ago.
“This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health,” Mangold said. “In 2006, I was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease.”
“After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he continued. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time."
He added: "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 community.”
Mangold, an Ohio native, was the 29th overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft out of the state. He played 171 games for the Jets and made seven Pro Bowl appearances before retiring after the 2016 season. He was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2022.
Last week, Mangold was announced as one of 52 Modern-Era players being considered for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.