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

Health Struggle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, 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 was a star in college.

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

“Sadly, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in need of a kidney donor with O-type blood.”

Illustrious NFL 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 franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the center fortified an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was highly respected and he sat out only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose guidance and grit defined an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, warmth, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with supporters, known for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets games after his playing days – he downed a beer while being inducted 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 assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape young men into men and teach the game of football, but also impart them a something about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered 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 fired, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he comes 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 sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

When he revealed his condition he praised 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 amazing family, companions, and network behind me.”