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

Medical Struggle and Public Appeal

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

“In 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought 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 turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Storied 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 on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the center led an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was highly respected and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” franchise ownership remarked in a statement. “He was the core of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose guidance and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with fans, recognized for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging personality. 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 retirement – he chugged 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 coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape boys into men and instruct the game of football, but also impart them a something about the world 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 remembered his former player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, competed for USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

When he revealed his condition he praised his family, saying they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, companions, and community behind me.”