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Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his eleven-year tenure with the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41.

Medical Struggle and Public Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold disclosed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought support from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in college.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had longer.

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

Storied Football 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, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman led an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate 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 legendary center,” franchise ownership said in a release. “He was the core of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and toughness characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with fans, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and engaging character. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets games after his retirement – 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 coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape young men into men and teach the game of football, but also impart them a something about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four 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, saying they had “been my support every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and community behind me.”