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

Health Battle and Community Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold shared he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in college.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m on dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he stated 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 willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our Jets and Ohio State families. I am in need 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 whole professional football career with the franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that period, the center fortified an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was highly respected and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner stated in a statement. “He was the soul of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose guidance and toughness characterized an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with fans, known for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was active on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets matches after his playing days – he chugged 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 mold boys into men and instruct the game of football, but also teach them a little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold told a newspaper in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful 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 last game, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was wed to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, competed for USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.

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