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Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his eleven-year tenure with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the young age of 41.

Health Battle and Community Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold disclosed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for assistance from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m on dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.

“Regrettably, 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 need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Storied NFL Career

Mangold was a first-round pick 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 on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman led an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was universally praised and he missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” the team’s owner remarked in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade and a respected teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, known for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and outgoing personality. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets games after his retirement – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the region when his playing days were over, becoming an assistant 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 little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a great person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

Mangold was wed to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.

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