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Nick Mangold, a cherished athlete during his eleven-year tenure with the New York Jets, has passed away at the young age of 41.

Health Battle and Community Appeal

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

“In 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.

“Unfortunately, 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 families. I am in need 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 dedicated his whole professional football career with the franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman fortified an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was universally praised and he missed only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the soul of our O-line for a decade and a respected teammate whose leadership and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, warmth, and steadfast loyalty made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with supporters, recognized for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets games after his retirement – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his playing days were over, taking on the role of an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a great young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

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

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