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Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his eleven-year career with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the age of 41.

Medical Battle and Community Appeal

Earlier this month, 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 was a star in college.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had additional years.

“Sadly, I do not have any family willing 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 O-type blood.”

Storied 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 franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the center fortified an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was universally praised and he sat out only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner remarked in a release. “He was the core of our O-line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose leadership and toughness characterized an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, recognized for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets matches after his retirement – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the area when his career were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape boys into men and instruct the game of football, but also teach them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his former player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was wed 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 weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he paid tribute to his family, stating they had “been my support every phase of the way. This circumstance has made me realize how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and network behind me.”