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

Medical Battle and Community Appeal

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

“Back in 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had additional years.

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

Storied 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 franchise, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that time, the center anchored an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was highly respected and he missed only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” the team’s owner said in a release. “He was the soul of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and grit defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and steadfast loyalty made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with fans, known for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging character. He was active on social media and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets matches after his playing days – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the area when his playing days were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold boys into men and teach the sport of football, but also impart them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

Mangold was wed to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he thanked his family, 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, companions, and network behind me.”