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Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his 11-season tenure with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the age of 41.

Health Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold shared he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought support from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had additional years.

“Regrettably, I do not have any relatives able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State families. I am in search of a kidney donor with O-type blood.”

Illustrious NFL Career

Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his entire professional football career with the franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman led an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach 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 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” the team’s owner stated in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a respected teammate whose guidance and toughness characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, known for his flowing locks, beard, charitable work and engaging character. He was active on social media and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets games after his playing days – he downed 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 assistant 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 something about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with a newspaper in 2024.

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

Family Life and Impact

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

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