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

Medical Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for assistance from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m on dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I believed I would have had more time.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any family willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m appealing to you, our Jets and Ohio State families. I am in need of a kidney donor with O-type blood.”

Storied NFL Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his whole professional football career with the team, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman anchored an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was universally praised and he sat out only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” franchise ownership remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a respected teammate whose guidance and grit defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, beard, charitable work and outgoing character. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his retirement – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the region when his career were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – 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 Impact

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 London Games in the sport of weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he thanked his loved ones, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This circumstance has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an incredible home, friends, and network behind me.”