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Nick Mangold, a beloved player during his 11-season tenure with the Jets franchise, has died at the 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 fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in college.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had additional years.

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

Illustrious Football Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his entire professional football career with the franchise, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the center fortified an offensive 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 toughness was universally praised and he missed only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the soul of our offensive line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose leadership and toughness characterized an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, recognized for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and engaging character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his retirement – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained 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 shape boys into adults and teach the game of football, but also impart them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

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

When he revealed his illness he thanked his loved ones, stating they had “been my support every phase of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and network behind me.”