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

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold disclosed he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in his collegiate years.

“Back in 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had longer.

“Unfortunately, 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 communities. I am in search of a kidney donor with O-type blood.”

Storied Football 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 team, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman led an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was widely admired and he missed only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” franchise ownership said in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose guidance and toughness characterized an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with supporters, known for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets games after his retirement – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his career were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold young men into men and teach the game of football, but also teach them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his former player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he paid tribute to his loved ones, saying they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible family, friends, and community behind me.”