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

Medical Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold shared he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought support 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 rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I believed I would have had more time.

“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 families. I am in need of a kidney donor with O-type blood.”

Illustrious Football Career

Mangold was a top draft selection 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 stepped away in 2016. During that era, the center anchored an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was highly respected and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” franchise ownership stated in a release. “He was the soul of our O-line for a ten years and a respected teammate whose leadership and grit defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was engaged 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 region when his playing days 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 teach the sport of football, but also impart them a little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who led 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 recall it was obvious I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – 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 childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he paid tribute to his loved ones, 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 community behind me.”