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

Medical Struggle and Community Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold revealed he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought support from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in college.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m on dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I believed I would have had more time.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any relatives able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in search of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Storied NFL Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his entire professional football career with the franchise, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman fortified an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was highly respected and he sat out only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” the team’s owner stated in a release. “He was the soul of our O-line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with supporters, known for his long hair, facial hair, charitable work and outgoing character. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his playing days were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape boys into adults and instruct the sport of football, but also teach them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

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

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