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Nick Mangold, a cherished player during his eleven-year tenure with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the age of 41.

Medical Struggle and Public Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold revealed he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought help from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in college.

“Back in 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult 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 thought I would have had more time.

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

Illustrious NFL 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, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman fortified an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to 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 missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” the team’s owner stated in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our O-line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose guidance and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with supporters, recognized for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards 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 stayed in the region when his playing days were over, taking on the role of an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his former player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Impact

Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in the sport of weightlifting.

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