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Nick Mangold, an adored player during his eleven-year career with the Jets franchise, has died at the young age of 41.

Health Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought support from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had longer.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any family willing 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 O-type blood.”

Illustrious Football Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his whole professional football career with the team, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman fortified an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was universally praised and he sat out only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” franchise ownership said in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our O-line for a ten years and a beloved teammate whose guidance and grit defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, kindness, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, recognized for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets games after his playing days – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his playing days were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold boys into adults and instruct the sport of football, but also impart them a little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

Mangold was wed to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the London Games in weightlifting.

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