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

Medical Struggle and Public Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold disclosed he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I thought I would have had additional years.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any relatives able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Illustrious NFL 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 on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman led an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was universally praised and he sat out only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a respected teammate whose leadership and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and steadfast loyalty made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with supporters, known for his long hair, beard, charitable work and engaging character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen 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 stayed in the area when his career were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape boys into adults and instruct the game of football, but also teach them a little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with a newspaper in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his former player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

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

When he revealed his illness he thanked his family, saying they had “been my support every phase of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible family, friends, and community behind me.”