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Nick Mangold death: Rex Ryan gets emotional reacting to passing of former New York Jets star

Grant Grubbs Profile Pictureby: Grant Grubbs9 hours agogrant_grubbs_
Rex Ryan reacts to Nick Mangold death
© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

On Sunday, former New York Jets center Nick Mangold died due to kidney disease complications. He was 41 years old. On Sunday NFL Countdown, Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold from 2009-14, was brought to tears while remembering the three-time NFL All-Pro.

“It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the jets. I remember — it was obvious I was getting fired — my last game, Mangold’s injured, like injured. And he comes to me and he says, ‘I’m playing this game.’

“He wanted to play for me. That’s what I remember about this kid. He was awesome and just way too young. I feel so bad for his wife and family. Rough.”

Mangold played his entire career with the Jets from 2006-16. He was named First-Team All-Pro twice (2009, ’10), Second-Team All-Pro in 2011 and was a seven-time Pro Bowler during his career.

He was pivotal during the Jets’ runs to the AFC Championship Game in back-to-back seasons under Rex Ryan. Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he was diagnosed with a genetic defect that led to chronic kidney disease in 2006.

Further, Mangold noted he was undergoing dialysis and in need of a kidney donor. In 2022, Nick Mangold was inducted into the New York Jets’ Ring of Honor.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” Jets owner Woody Johnson said in a release. “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.”

Mangold is survived by his wife, Jennifer, and their four children Matthew, Eloise, Thomas and Charlotte. Last November, Mangold appeared on The Official Jets Podcast and raved about his love for the organization.

“Being able to finish out my career here, being able to play for only one team is something really special to me,” Mangold said. “It’s a great team to be a part of. This fan base is as passionate as they come, loyal as all get-out.”

Mangold played college football at Ohio State from 20025-05. He was a First-Team All-American in his final season with the Buckeyes. The Jets drafted him with the No. 29 overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. His impact on his teammates, coaches and fans will never be forgotten.