Nick Mangold, a three-time All-Pro and seven-time Pro Bowler across 11 seasons with the New York Jets, has died. The franchise announced the 41-year-old had passed Sunday morning in advance of its Week 8 game at the Cincinnati Bengals.
It’s a devastating turn for a player who had recently gone to the public in his search for a kidney donor. The space-clearing center was diagnosed in 2006 with what he called “a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease.” That was only 12 days before his death.
Mangold was the 29th pick of the 2006 NFL Draft after being named a 2005 All-American at Ohio State (and, curiously, a second-team All-Big Ten selection). He was the centerpiece of an offensive line that blocked for quarterbacks like Chad Pennington, Brett Favre, Mark Sanchez, Geno Smith and Ryan Fitzpatrick. While dysfunction was a staple behind center, Mangold’s world was a violent nirvana in front of them.
How did Nick Mangold die?
Mangold passed away due to complications from kidney disease, per a New York Jets release. Team officials, former teammates, former rivals and media members made their tributes after hearing the news Sunday.
“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.”
