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Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his 11-season tenure with the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41.

Medical Struggle and Community Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold disclosed he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought help from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years.

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

“Unfortunately, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in need 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, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman fortified an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was universally praised and he missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner said in a release. “He was the heartbeat 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, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with fans, recognized for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and engaging character. He was engaged on social media and was seldom spotted without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets matches after his playing days – he chugged 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, taking on the role of an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape boys into men and instruct the sport of football, but also impart them a little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold told a newspaper in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his former player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

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

When he revealed his condition he paid tribute to his family, saying they had “been my rock every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an incredible family, friends, and community behind me.”