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Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his 11-season tenure with the New York Jets, has passed away at the young age of 41.

Medical Struggle and Public Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold revealed he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for support from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed 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 stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had more time.

“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 followers. 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 entire professional football career with the team, securing 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman 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 widely admired and he sat out only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” the team’s owner said in a statement. “He was the core of our offensive line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose guidance and grit defined an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, known for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was active on social media and was seldom spotted without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his retirement – 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 shape young men into adults and instruct the game of football, but also impart them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a great person. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

Mangold was wed to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in the sport of weightlifting.

When he revealed his condition he thanked his loved ones, stating they had “been my support every phase of the way. This circumstance has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, companions, and network behind me.”