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

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for help from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in his collegiate years.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he stated 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 family willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our Jets and Ohio State families. I am in need of a kidney donor with O-type blood.”

Illustrious NFL Career

Mangold was a top draft selection 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 on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman anchored an O-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 toughness was highly respected and he missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” the team’s owner said in a release. “He was the core of our O-line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, warmth, and steadfast loyalty made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, beard, charitable work and outgoing personality. He was engaged on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets matches after his playing days – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the area when his playing days were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his ex- 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 fired, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m playing 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 four children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, competed for USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he thanked his loved ones, stating they had “been my rock every step of the way. This situation has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and network behind me.”