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

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold disclosed he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for support from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in college.

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

“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 dedicated his entire professional football career with the franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the center anchored an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was highly respected and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” the team’s owner said in a statement. “He was the soul of our O-line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose leadership and toughness characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and outgoing personality. He was engaged on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his playing days – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his career were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold young men into men and instruct the game of football, but also teach them a little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with a newspaper in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” 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, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family Life and Impact

Mangold was wed 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 weightlifting.

When he announced his illness he praised his loved ones, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing home, companions, and community behind me.”