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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 Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought help from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I believed I would have had more time.

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

Storied Football Career

Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his whole professional football career with the franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman anchored an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was highly respected and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 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 O-line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose leadership and toughness characterized an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, recognized for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was engaged on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee 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, 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 teach them a something about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his former player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

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

When he announced his illness he paid tribute to his loved ones, stating they had “been my rock every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an amazing family, companions, and network behind me.”