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

Health Struggle and Public Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold revealed he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He reached out for support from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in his collegiate years.

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

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

Storied Football Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his entire professional football career with the franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the center fortified an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was widely admired and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” the team’s owner said in a statement. “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. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and steadfast dedication 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 long hair, beard, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets games after his retirement – 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 impart them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with a newspaper in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Impact

Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the London Games in weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he paid tribute to his loved ones, stating they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an incredible family, companions, and network behind me.”