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

Medical Struggle and Community Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold shared he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in college.

“In 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I believed I would have had additional years.

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

Illustrious NFL Career

Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his whole professional football career with the franchise, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that era, the center 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 toughness was widely admired and he sat out only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our O-line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose leadership and toughness characterized an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and outgoing character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his retirement – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his career were over, taking on the role of an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape young men into men and teach the sport of football, but also impart them a something about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired 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 the sport of weightlifting.

When he announced his illness he thanked his family, stating they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible family, companions, and community behind me.”