Roy Keane’s Outfit Quietly Honors Late NFL Star Whose Rule He Once Defied
During a recent episode of Stick to Football, former footballer Roy Keane made headlines with his outfit choice. The Cork native surprised viewers by wearing an NFL jersey, a significant departure from his usual attire.
Roy Keane’s Tribute to Nick Mangold
Keane’s outfit served as a heartfelt tribute to Nick Mangold, a former NFL star who passed away on October 25, 2023, at the age of 41. The two first met in September 2023 before a game between the New York Jets and the Buffalo Bills. This meeting made a lasting impact on Keane.
The Meeting
Keane recalled the encounter, stating that he briefly interacted with Mangold prior to the game. They exchanged jerseys, a gesture that Keane rarely partakes in. He mentioned, “I had a chat with him before the game; really cool guy, top man.”
Nick Mangold’s Legacy
Mangold had a stellar career in the NFL, spending ten years with the New York Jets. His accolades included:
- Seven Pro Bowl selections
- Three All-Pro nods
He battled kidney disease complications for nearly two decades before his untimely passing. Despite their brief meeting, Mangold made a lasting impression on Keane, prompting him to wear the jersey as a sign of respect.
Keane’s Jersey Swap
Keane is known for his long-standing rule against swapping jerseys, having done so only once in his own playing career. This indicates the special nature of his relationship with Mangold. By wearing the jersey, Keane not only honored Mangold’s legacy but also highlighted the impact of their connection.
This tribute reflects the deep respect and admiration Keane had for the late NFL star, demonstrating the bonds that can form across different sports. It also serves as a reminder of the human side of athletes, who often share meaningful stories behind their public personas.
