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Nick Mangold, a cherished athlete during his eleven-year career with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the age of 41.

Health Battle and Community Appeal

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

“In 2006, I was found 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 able 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.”

Illustrious Football Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his entire professional football career with the franchise, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the center anchored an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was highly respected and he sat out only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” franchise ownership remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a cherished teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and outgoing personality. He was engaged on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets games after his retirement – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his playing days were over, taking on the role of 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 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 ex- player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the pleasure 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, injured – 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 longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

When he revealed his illness he thanked his loved ones, stating they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an incredible home, companions, and network behind me.”