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Nick Mangold, an adored player during his eleven-year career with the Jets franchise, has died at the young age of 41.

Medical Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold disclosed he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought support from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I believed 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 reaching out to you, our NY 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 whole professional football career with the team, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the center led an O-line together with 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 sat out only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” franchise ownership stated in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and engaging character. He was active on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets games after his retirement – he chugged a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his career were over, taking on the role of 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 life as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered his former player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor 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 injured – like, injured – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was married to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in the sport of weightlifting.

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