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Nick Mangold, an adored player during his 11-season career with the Jets franchise, has died at the young age of 41.

Health Battle and Community Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold revealed he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for help from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years.

“Back in 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a challenging 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 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 top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his whole professional football career with the team, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the center led an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was universally praised and he missed only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” the team’s owner stated in a release. “He was the core of our O-line for a ten years and a respected teammate whose leadership and grit defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and outgoing personality. He was active on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets games after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the area when his career were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold boys into adults and teach the game of football, but also teach them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his ex- player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a great person. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

Mangold was wed to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he praised his loved ones, saying they had “been my rock every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible home, companions, and community behind me.”