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Former NFL star Nick Mangold died suddenly on October 25 at the age of 41. After a “rough summer,” the devoted husband and father passed away due to complications from kidney disease. The beloved New York Jets alum leaves behind his wife of 18 years and four children, whom his dedicated fans want to learn more about during this difficult time.

Nick Mangold dies from complications after seeking a kidney donor

Just 12 days ago, Nick Mangold shared a scary health update with his Instagram followers. The retired NFL center wrote, “This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health. 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. I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have more time.”

Mangold went on to explain that he does not have any family able to donate. The Ohio State alum reached out to his Jets and Buckeyes communities, asking for a kidney donor with type O blood, including the link for any interested supporters. “This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and community behind me,” he stated. Mangold called his health status “tough,” but said he is “staying positive and focused on the path ahead.”

After his death on October 25, NFL fans flooded his post with well-wishes. The New York Jets shared a press release honoring No. 74’s legacy as a franchise legend. Jets Chairman Woody Johnson shared, “Nick was more than a legendary center. 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.”

Nick Mangold married his high school sweetheart, Jenny, in 2007

Mangold shared a deep and enduring bond with his wife, Jennifer “Jenny” Richmond Mangold. The pair first met in Centerville, Ohio, where their high school romance began before his football career took off. Nick and Jenny married in April 2007, and Jenny remained largely out of the public eye as his star rose with the Ohio State Buckeyes and New York Jets.

The Mangold family included kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte

The couple built a family rooted in love and stability, raising four children — Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte — while balancing the demands of Mangold’s career with the New York Jets and later his post-football life.

Nick, Jenny, and their kids lived in Chatham, New Jersey — about a half hour from the Jets stadium — during his playing days. The family of six moved to Madison, New Jersey, after his retirement from the NFL, where he coached for Delbarton School.

The Benedictine Catholic All-Boys school located in Morristown, New Jersey, posted a tribute to Nick. The school wrote on Instagram, “The Delbarton community mourns the passing of Nick Mangold P’29, a Delbarton father and a dedicated member of our Varsity Football staff, who had been battling a kidney-related illness. Our community holds the Mangold family in our prayers.” Delbarton School had previously posted asking for any interested kidney donors to visit columbiasurgery.org/kidney-transplant.

Throughout his time in the spotlight, Mangold credited Jenny and their children as his greatest support system, describing them as his source of strength through health struggles and personal challenges. The family, who made their home in New Jersey, continues to honor his legacy of dedication, humility, and unwavering love.

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