NFL Star Nick Mangold Dies at 38 After Kidney Disease Struggle

The NFL community is mourning the loss of former New York Jets center Nick Mangold, who passed away on October 25th, 2025 at the age of 38 due to complications from kidney disease. Mangold, who retired from the NFL in 2016, was known not only for his legendary career on the field, but also for his unwavering devotion to his family.

After hanging up his cleats, Mangold transitioned from the locker room to the home, becoming a hands-on father to his four children - Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. He coached his son's basketball team, took his kids on Disney trips, and even let his daughter give him manicures and pedicures. Mangold also channeled his passion for food into a line of barbecue sauces, each one inspired by the unique personalities of his children.

In the weeks leading up to his passing, Mangold had reached out to his fan base, asking for a kidney donor as he underwent dialysis. Tragically, his search for a donor was cut short. "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."