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Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his 11-season career with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the young age of 41.

Medical Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold revealed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in college.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had more time.

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

Storied NFL 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 team, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that era, the center fortified an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was widely admired and he missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” the team’s owner said in a statement. “He was the soul of our offensive line for a ten years and a respected teammate whose guidance and grit defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, warmth, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with fans, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and outgoing personality. He was engaged on social media and was rarely seen without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets games after his retirement – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his career were over, taking on the role of an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who coached 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 young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family 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, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.

When he announced his illness he praised his family, stating they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This circumstance has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an incredible home, friends, and network behind me.”