Rex Ryan Breaks Down in Emotional Tribute to Nick Mangold

Former New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan broke down on live television while paying tribute to his former player Nick Mangold, who passed away at the age of 41. The emotional moment occurred during ESPN’s “Sunday NFL Countdown,” shortly after the news of Mangold’s death was confirmed.

Mangold, a seven-time Pro Bowl center and one of the most beloved figures in Jets history, died from complications related to kidney disease. Just days earlier, he had revealed that he was awaiting a kidney transplant due to a rare genetic disorder.

Rex Ryan’s Heartfelt Words for Nick Mangold

Fighting back tears, Ryan recalled Mangold’s dedication and selflessness during their time together with the Jets from 2009 to 2014. “Such a great young man,” Ryan said. “I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember when it was obvious I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold was injured. And he came to me and said, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he went out and played for me.”

The coach paused mid-sentence, visibly emotional as ESPN colleagues Mike Greenberg and Randy Moss comforted him. “That’s what I remember about this kid,” Ryan added. “He was awesome, and just way too young. I feel so bad for his wife and family.”

Mangold’s leadership was a defining part of Ryan’s Jets teams that made consecutive AFC Championship appearances in 2009 and 2010. Teammates and analysts alike described him as the “heartbeat” of the locker room — a player who set the tone with toughness and professionalism.

Remembering Nick Mangold’s Legacy

Nick Mangold spent his entire 11-year NFL career with the Jets after being drafted in the first round in 2006. He started 164 games, anchoring one of the most consistent offensive lines in the league. His performance earned him two First-Team All-Pro selections and a spot in the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2022.

Teammate Willie Colon, who played alongside Mangold from 2013 to 2015, said he spoke with him just a week before his passing. “Those who knew about my career as a Jet know I was injury-prone,” Colon said. “There were days I was out there on one leg, but I’d look at 74 — and he’d say, ‘I got you.’ He always had my back.”

Mangold is also among the 52 modern-era candidates under consideration for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s 2026 class — a recognition many believe he fully deserves.

The Human Side of Football

Ryan’s tribute highlights the emotional depth that exists within the high-pressure world of professional football. It’s rare for fans to see the vulnerability of a coach who once led with fiery intensity on the sidelines. Yet, moments like this show the humanity behind the sport — the bonds, loyalty, and respect that outlast careers.

Nick Mangold’s passing has left an enormous void in the Jets community, but Rex Ryan’s heartfelt words reminded fans of what made Mangold special — his loyalty, humility, and heart both on and off the field.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What did Rex Ryan say about Nick Mangold?

Rex Ryan called Mangold “a great young man” and remembered how the injured center insisted on playing in Ryan’s final game as Jets coach.

Q2: How did Nick Mangold die?

Nick Mangold died from complications related to kidney disease. He had been seeking a kidney transplant due to a rare genetic disorder.

Q3: What was Mangold’s career with the Jets like?

Mangold played 11 seasons with the Jets, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors. He started 164 games and was inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor.

Q4: What made Ryan’s tribute so emotional?

Ryan’s tribute showed the deep personal bond between the two. His tears reflected both grief and admiration for Mangold’s loyalty and leadership.

Q5: Is Nick Mangold a Hall of Fame candidate?

Yes. Mangold is among the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame candidates, recognized for his decade-long excellence with the Jets.