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Nick Mangold, an adored athlete 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 required a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in college.

“Back in 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had longer.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any relatives willing 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 O-type blood.”

Storied NFL Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his entire professional football career with the franchise, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that period, the center anchored an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was highly respected and he missed only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” franchise ownership said in a statement. “He was the soul of our O-line for a decade and a respected teammate whose leadership and grit defined an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, known for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was engaged on digital platforms and was seldom spotted 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 remained in the region when his career were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Ex- head 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 said. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

Mangold was wed to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had four children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, represented 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 reminded me how lucky I am to have such an incredible family, companions, and network behind me.”