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

Medical Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought help from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had longer.

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

Illustrious Football 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, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman fortified an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was widely admired and he sat out only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” franchise ownership remarked in a statement. “He was the core of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and grit defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with fans, known for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and engaging personality. He was engaged on social media and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets games 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, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape boys 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.

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

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, 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 paid tribute to his loved ones, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible home, friends, and community behind me.”