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Nick Mangold, a cherished athlete during his 11-season career with the New York Jets, has passed away at the age of 41.

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought support from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years.

“Back in 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had additional years.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any relatives willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m appealing to you, our Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Illustrious NFL Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his whole professional football career with the team, securing 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman anchored an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was highly respected and he sat out only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with fans, known for his long hair, facial hair, charitable work and engaging personality. He was active on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his career were over, taking on the role of an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold young men into adults and teach the sport of football, but also teach them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with a newspaper in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his former player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Impact

Mangold was wed to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had four children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he paid tribute to his family, stating they had “been my support every phase of the way. This situation has made me realize how lucky I am to have such an amazing home, friends, and network behind me.”