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

Health Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold disclosed he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought help from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in college.

“Back 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 stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped 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 reaching out to you, our Jets and Ohio State families. I am in search 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 dedicated his whole professional football career with the team, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman fortified an offensive line alongside 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 resilience was universally praised and he sat out only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the soul of our offensive line for a ten years and a respected teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with fans, known for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was active on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets games after his retirement – he downed 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 mold young men into men and instruct the game of football, but also teach them a something about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with a newspaper in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a great young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

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

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