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Nick Mangold, an adored player during his 11-season tenure with the Jets franchise, has died at the young age of 41.

Medical Struggle and Public 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 his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had more time.

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

Illustrious Football Career

Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent 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 era, the offensive lineman anchored an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was widely admired and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” franchise ownership remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a respected teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and unwavering dedication made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with fans, recognized for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets games after his retirement – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained 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 boys into adults and teach the sport of football, but also impart them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold told a newspaper in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered his former player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a great 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 last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

When he announced his illness he thanked his family, saying they had “been my support every phase of the way. This situation has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an amazing family, companions, and community behind me.”