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Nick Mangold, a beloved player during his eleven-year tenure with the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41.

Medical Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold disclosed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought support from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in college.

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

“Unfortunately, I do not have any relatives willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our Jets and Ohio State families. 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 franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman anchored an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was widely admired and he missed only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” the team’s owner said in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive 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 steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and engaging character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets matches after his retirement – he downed a beer while being inducted 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 coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his former player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a great person. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

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

When he revealed his illness he paid tribute to his loved ones, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This circumstance has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an incredible home, friends, and network behind me.”