Robert Laberge/Getty Images

Chad Pennington Posts Sweet Tribute To Former Teammate Nick Mangold

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Oct 28, 2025 4:07 PM ET

Tributes to New York Jets legend Nick Mangold have poured in from current and former Jets from across generations over the past few days in the wake of his untimely passing. Among the many teammates to pay tribute this week is former Jets and Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington.

In 2006, Mangold was tasked as a rookie with helping to keep the notoriously injury-prone Pennington upright after he had missed most of the prior season. Not only did Mangold succeed at the job, Pennington went on to have one of his best seasons as a pro, winning Comeback Player of the Year honors and leading the Jets to the playoffs.

On Tuesday, Pennington paid tribute to Mangold with a heartfelt message for the man he once took snaps from.

"You were amazing @nickmangold ! It seems like yesterday when we met in 2006. A vet qb & a rookie center. You always kept things in perspective. Steady & reliable on the field & more importantly in life. My heart breaks," Pennington wrote.

You were amazing @nickmangold ! It seems like yesterday when we met in 2006. A vet qb & a rookie center. You always kept things in perspective. Steady & reliable on the field & more importantly in life. My heart breaks. https://t.co/zhYkoo4MJ5
— Chad Pennington (@ChadPennington) October 28, 2025

Mangold's Legacy in New York

From his 2006 rookie season until his 2016 retirement, Mangold ranked among the top centers in the NFL, making seven Pro Bowls and two All-Pro selections while anchoring the last three playoff teams that the Jets ever had.

Mangold became a fan favorite not just among Jets fans but among general NFL fans who loved his playful off-the-field personality. His size and strength contrasted with how goofy he could be when the cameras were on him helped make him one of the league's most popular offensive linemen for years.

Oct 17, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New York Jets center Nick Mangold (74) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Jets 28-3. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Tragically, Mangold announced earlier this month that he was in dire need of a kidney due to a chronic kidney condition. He passed away this past weekend at the age of 41.

As a team, the New York Jets rallied behind their fallen legend to upset the Cincinnati Bengals on the road and get their first win of the 2025 season.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: