Rex Ryan issued a tearful tribute to Nick Mangold and his family after the shocking news that the former New York Jets center had passed away at the age of 41.
Earlier this month, Mangold announced he was battling chronic kidney disease as a result of a genetic defect that had been discovered in 2006. The former Jets star had been undergoing dialysis and needed a transplant.
However, on Sunday, it was announced that Mangold, who spent all of his 11-year career with the Jets, had passed away due to complications from kidney disease. Mangold’s time with the Jets saw him play under Ryan, who broke down in tears on ESPN while issuing a heartfelt tribute to his former player.
“It’s brutal,” said a tearful Ryan, appearing on ESPN’s ‘Sunday NFL Countdown’.
“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 says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he went out and played for me.
“That’s what I remember about this kid, he was awesome. And it’s just way too young. I feel so bad for his wife and family. Rough.”
In a statement issued by the Jets, owner Woody Johnson hailed Mangold for his the impact he had both on and off the field during his time in the Meadowlands.
“Nick was more than a legendary center,” said 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.”
Jets vice chairman Christopher Johnson also hailed Mangold for his “character, humility and humor”, adding he was the embodiment of “consistency, strength and leadership.”
“Nick was the embodiment of consistency, strength, and leadership,” said the Jets vice chairman in a statement.
“For over a decade, he anchored our offensive line with unmatched skill and determination, earning the respect of teammates, opponents, and fans alike. His contributions on the field were extraordinary — but it was his character, humility, and humor off the field that made him unforgettable.”
Mangold, who had four children — Matthew, Eloise, Thomas and Charlotte — with wife Lauren, received two First-Team All-Pro nods during his 11-year career, which also saw him make seven Pro Bowls.
A star for Ohio State, with whom he won a National Championship in 2002, Mangold played the final game of his career back in 2016. While he was released by New York come the end of the 2016 season, he would later sign a one-day contract in 2018 to retire a Jet.
