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

Medical Struggle and Community Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold disclosed he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in his collegiate years.

“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 look for a kidney transplant,” he stated 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 appealing to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in search of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Illustrious 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 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the center anchored an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was widely admired and he missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” franchise ownership remarked in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our O-line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and engaging personality. 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 retirement – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the area when his career were over, taking on the role of an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” 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 obvious I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal 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 London Games in the sport of weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he praised his loved ones, saying they had “been my support every phase of the way. This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an incredible home, friends, and network behind me.”