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Nick Mangold, a cherished player during his 11-season tenure with the Jets franchise, has died at the young age of 41.

Health Battle and Public Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold revealed he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought support from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had longer.

“Sadly, 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 followers. 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 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 retired 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 presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was widely admired and he sat out only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” the team’s owner remarked in a release. “He was the core of our offensive line for a ten years and a respected teammate whose leadership and grit defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, 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, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was engaged on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets games after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the area when his playing days were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape boys into men 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.

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

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

When he revealed his illness he thanked his family, stating they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, friends, and network behind me.”