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

Health Battle and Public Appeal

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

“In 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I thought I would have had additional years.

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

Illustrious NFL Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his whole professional football career with the franchise, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions 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 durability was universally praised 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 stated in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose leadership and grit defined an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and outgoing personality. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets games after his retirement – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the region when his career were over, taking on the role of 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 impart them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was wed to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he praised his family, saying they had “been my support every step of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, friends, and network behind me.”