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Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his 11-season career with the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41.

Medical Battle and Community Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold disclosed 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 shone in his collegiate years.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he stated 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 appealing to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Illustrious NFL Career

Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his entire professional football career with the team, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman fortified an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was widely admired and he sat out only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a beloved teammate whose leadership and grit defined an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and outgoing character. He was active on social media and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets games after his playing days – he downed a beer while being inducted 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 adults and instruct the game of football, but also impart them a something about the world 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 remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful 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 injured – like, injured – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

Mangold was wed to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in the sport of weightlifting.

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