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Nick Mangold, a cherished player during his 11-season career with the New York Jets, has passed away at the young age of 41.

Medical Battle and Community Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he had been receiving 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 found to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m on dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I thought 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 reaching out to you, our Jets and Ohio State families. I am in search of a kidney donor with O-type 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 franchise, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that period, the center fortified an offensive line alongside 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 toughness was widely admired and he sat out only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” the team’s owner stated in a statement. “He was the core of our O-line for a ten years and a beloved teammate whose guidance and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with supporters, recognized for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and engaging character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his reverse 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 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 mold young men into adults and instruct the sport of football, but also impart them a something about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his former 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 obvious I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

Mangold was married to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he thanked his loved ones, 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 family, companions, and community behind me.”