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Nick Mangold, an adored player during his eleven-year career with the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41.

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

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

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

“Sadly, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in search of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Illustrious Football Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his whole professional football career with the franchise, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman led an O-line alongside 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 resilience was universally praised and he sat out only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner said in a release. “He was the core of our O-line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose leadership and grit defined an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, warmth, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with fans, recognized for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets matches after his playing days – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his playing days were over, taking on the role of an 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.

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his former player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful 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, seriously hurt – 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 longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he praised his family, saying they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This situation has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an incredible family, companions, and community behind me.”