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

Medical Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold shared he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for support from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in college.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed 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 believed I would have had more time.

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

Illustrious NFL Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his whole professional football career with the team, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman anchored an O-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 toughness was highly respected and he sat out only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” franchise ownership said in a release. “He was the core of our offensive line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose guidance and toughness characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with fans, recognized for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and outgoing personality. He was active on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets matches after his retirement – he downed a beer while being inducted 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 mold boys into adults and teach the sport of football, but also impart them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his former player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he comes to me and says, ‘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 four kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he praised his family, stating they had “been my rock every step of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing home, friends, and network behind me.”