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Nick Mangold, a cherished athlete during his 11-season tenure with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the young age of 41.

Health Struggle and Public Appeal

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

“Back 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 search for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I thought I would have had longer.

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

Illustrious Football 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 team, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman anchored an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was universally praised and he missed only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” franchise ownership said in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was active on social media and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets games after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the area 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 young men into adults and teach the game of football, but also teach them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with a newspaper in 2024.

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his former player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

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

When he announced his illness he praised his loved ones, stating they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible family, friends, and network behind me.”