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

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

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

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had additional years.

“Sadly, I do not have any relatives willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our Jets and Ohio State communities. 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 spent 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 era, 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 toughness was universally praised and he sat out only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” franchise ownership remarked in a statement. “He was the soul of our O-line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose leadership and toughness characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, known for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was active on social media and was seldom spotted without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets matches after his retirement – he chugged a beer while being inducted 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 mold boys into adults and instruct the sport of football, but also impart 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 remembered his former player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” 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 clear I was getting fired, 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 Impact

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

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