Rex Ryan Delivers Emotional On-Air Tribute Following Nick Mangold’s Sudden Passing

The NFL community is mourning the loss of former New York Jets center Nick Mangold. He was 41 years old. The Jets organization confirmed his passing was due to complications from kidney disease. The news came just two weeks after Mangold publicly revealed his search for a kidney donor.

His former coach, Rex Ryan, delivered a heartbreaking, tearful tribute during a live ESPN broadcast. The emotional moment highlighted the profound impact Mangold had on his teammates and coaches. According to Reuters, the sports world has been united in grief.

A Coach’s Raw Grief and a Player’s Loyalty

Rex Ryan struggled to hold back tears on Sunday NFL Countdown. “It’s brutal,” Ryan stated, his voice breaking. He recalled coaching Mangold for all six of his seasons with the Jets from 2009 to 2014.

Ryan shared a powerful memory from his final game with the team. Mangold was injured but insisted on playing. That act of loyalty left a permanent mark on his former coach. Fellow commentator Randy Moss comforted Ryan as he composed himself.

Mangold’s Public Health Battle and Legacy

Nick Mangold was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and a two-time All-Pro. He disclosed his genetic kidney disease diagnosis just weeks before his death. In a social media statement, he had asked for a donor with type O blood.

Jets owner Woody Johnson released a statement honoring Mangold. He extended condolences to Mangold’s wife, Jenny, and their four children. “Nick Mangold will forever be a Jet,” Johnson affirmed. The statement was widely reported by major news outlets.

The football world has lost a legendary center and a beloved family man. Nick Mangold’s legacy extends far beyond his on-field accomplishments. Rex Ryan’s emotional tribute perfectly captured the deep respect Mangold earned throughout his life and career.

Thought you’d like to know-

What was the cause of Nick Mangold’s death?

Nick Mangold died from complications related to kidney disease. He had been diagnosed with a genetic defect that led to chronic kidney disease. He was publicly seeking a kidney transplant before his passing.

How many Pro Bowls did Nick Mangold make?

Nick Mangold was selected to the Pro Bowl seven times. He also earned first-team All-Pro honors twice. He was considered one of the best centers of his era.

Why was Rex Ryan so emotional about Mangold?

Ryan coached Mangold for his entire six-year tenure with the Jets. He recalled a specific moment where an injured Mangold played for him in a final game as a gesture of loyalty. Their bond was clearly very strong.

What did the New York Jets organization say?

Jets owner Woody Johnson offered condolences to Mangold’s wife and four children. The team released an official statement honoring him. It declared that Mangold would “forever be a Jet.”

When did Mangold reveal his health issues?

He publicly shared his need for a kidney transplant just two weeks before his death. He used social media to make the announcement. He asked the Jets and Ohio State communities for help finding a donor.

Trusted Sources

ESPN, Associated Press, Reuters, New York Jets Official Statement.