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Nick Mangold, a beloved player during his eleven-year career with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the age of 41.

Health Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold disclosed he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He reached out for assistance from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in college.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I thought I would have had additional years.

“Sadly, I do not have any relatives able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State families. I am in search 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 dedicated his entire professional football career with the team, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman anchored an offensive 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 durability was highly respected and he missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” franchise ownership remarked in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, warmth, and steadfast dedication made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with fans, known for his flowing locks, beard, charitable work and outgoing personality. He was active on social media and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets games after his playing days – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the region when his playing days were over, taking on the role of an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a great person. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family Life and Impact

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 the sport of weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he thanked his family, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This situation has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an incredible home, companions, and network behind me.”