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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.

Medical Battle and Community Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold revealed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in his collegiate years.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had more time.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any relatives able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m appealing to you, our Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in search 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 entire professional football career with the franchise, 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 offensive lineman led an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was highly respected and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner said in a statement. “He was the soul of our offensive line for a decade and a respected teammate whose leadership and grit defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and engaging personality. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets games after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the area when his playing days were over, taking on the role of 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 impart them a little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his former player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘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 4 children, 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 paid tribute to his family, stating they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This situation has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an incredible home, friends, and community behind me.”