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

Health Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for assistance from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in college.

“Back in 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any relatives willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in search 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 spent his whole professional football career with the team, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman led an O-line alongside 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 highly respected and he missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” franchise ownership remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with fans, known for his flowing locks, beard, charitable work and engaging 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 retirement – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the region when his playing days were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape boys into adults and instruct the sport of football, but also impart them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with 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 commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches 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 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he thanked his family, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible family, companions, and network behind me.”