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Nick Mangold, a cherished athlete during his eleven-year tenure with the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41.

Health Battle and Community Appeal

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

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had additional years.

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

Storied NFL Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his entire professional football career with the franchise, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman led an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was universally praised and he sat out only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” the team’s owner said in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our O-line for a ten years and a respected teammate whose guidance and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets games after his playing days – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his career were over, taking on the role of an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on a sports show. “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 recall it was obvious I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family Life and Impact

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

When he announced his condition he thanked his family, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an incredible home, companions, and network behind me.”