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Nick Mangold, a beloved player during his 11-season career with the New York Jets, has passed away at the young age of 41.

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and required 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 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 wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I believed 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 appealing to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State communities. 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 dedicated his whole professional football career with the franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman anchored an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to 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 more than a iconic center,” franchise ownership stated in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a beloved teammate whose guidance and grit defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, beard, charitable work and outgoing personality. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets matches after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his playing days were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape boys into adults and teach the sport of football, but also impart them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold told a newspaper in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a great person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting released, my last game, 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.”

Family Life and Legacy

Mangold was wed to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

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