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Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his 11-season tenure with the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41.

Health Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for help from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had longer.

“Sadly, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m appealing 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 led an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was universally praised and he missed only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and grit characterized an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with fans, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and outgoing character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his retirement – he chugged 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 young men into men and instruct the game of football, but also impart them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his former player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a great person. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m playing 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 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, represented 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 support every phase of the way. This circumstance has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and network behind me.”