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

Health Struggle and Community Appeal

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

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he stated 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 able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Storied Football 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, securing 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman led an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was highly respected and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” the team’s owner stated in a statement. “He was the soul 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 humor, warmth, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with fans, known for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was engaged on social media 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 honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the region when his playing days were over, becoming an 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 the world as you go along,” Mangold told a newspaper in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family Life and Impact

Mangold was married to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, 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 reminded me how lucky I am to have such an incredible home, friends, and community behind me.”