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

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold disclosed he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He reached out for assistance from fans 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 resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I believed I would have had more time.

“Regrettably, 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 type O blood.”

Storied Football Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his entire professional football career with the team, securing 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman anchored an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was widely admired and he sat out only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” the team’s owner said in a statement. “He was the core of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and grit characterized an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with supporters, known for his long hair, beard, charitable work and engaging character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets matches after his retirement – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained 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 shape boys into men and teach the sport of football, but also impart them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold told a newspaper in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he praised his family, saying they had “been my support every phase of the way. This situation has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an amazing family, companions, and network behind me.”