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

Health Battle and Community Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold shared he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought support from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in college.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a challenging 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 thought I would have had longer.

“Regrettably, I do not have any family able 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.”

Illustrious 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, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman anchored an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee 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 iconic center,” the team’s owner stated in a statement. “He was the soul of our offensive line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging character. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets matches after his playing days – he chugged 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, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold young men into men and teach the sport of football, but also teach them a little bit 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 remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

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 London Games in the sport of weightlifting.

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