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Nick Mangold, an adored player during his eleven-year tenure with the Jets franchise, has died at the young age of 41.

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought support from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m on dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I believed I would have had more time.

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

Illustrious NFL Career

Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his whole professional football career with the franchise, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that period, the center fortified an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was widely admired and he missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” franchise ownership remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our O-line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose guidance and grit defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, warmth, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging character. He was engaged 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 honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the region 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 sport of football, but also impart them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold told a newspaper in 2024.

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his former player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” 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 fired, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

Mangold was married to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had four kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, represented USA at the London Games in the sport of weightlifting.

When he revealed his condition he praised his loved ones, stating they had “been my support every phase of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, companions, and network behind me.”