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Nick Mangold, a beloved player during his 11-season career with the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41.

Medical Struggle and Community Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold shared he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star 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 on dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had additional years.

“Sadly, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Storied NFL Career

Mangold was a top draft selection 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 a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman anchored an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was widely admired and he missed only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” franchise ownership stated in a release. “He was the soul of our offensive line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose guidance and toughness characterized an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, warmth, and steadfast loyalty made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with fans, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and outgoing personality. He was active on social media and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets matches 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 coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape young men into men and teach the sport of football, but also teach them a something about the world 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 a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a great person. 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 desired 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 sister, Holley, represented USA at the London Games in the sport of weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he praised his family, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an incredible family, friends, and community behind me.”