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

Health Struggle and Public Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold revealed he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought support 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 genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I believed I would have had additional years.

“Sadly, I do not have any relatives willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our Jets and Ohio State families. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Illustrious NFL Career

Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his whole professional football career with the team, earning 7 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 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 toughness was universally praised and he missed only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the core of our offensive line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose guidance and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was engaged on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets matches after his retirement – he chugged 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 boys into adults and teach the sport of football, but also teach them a something about life 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 brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

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

When he revealed his condition he praised his loved ones, stating they had “been my rock every step of the way. This circumstance has made me realize how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, companions, and network behind me.”