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Nick Mangold, a beloved athlete during his eleven-year career with the Jets franchise, has died at the age of 41.

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for help 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 resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m on dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had additional years.

“Sadly, 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 families. I am in search of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Illustrious Football Career

Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his whole professional football career with the team, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the center anchored an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was universally praised and he missed only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” franchise ownership said in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade and a respected teammate whose leadership and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging character. He was active on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets matches after his retirement – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the region when his career were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold boys into men and instruct the game of football, but also teach 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 in tears as he recalled his former player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – 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 wed to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had four kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

When he revealed his condition he praised his family, stating they had “been my rock every step of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, companions, and network behind me.”