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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.

Health Battle and Community Appeal

In early announcements, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in college.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I thought 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 communities. I am in search of a kidney donor with O-type blood.”

Storied NFL Career

Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his entire professional football career with the team, securing 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman anchored an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was widely admired and he sat out only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” franchise ownership said 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 period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with fans, recognized for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was engaged on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches 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 playing days were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold young men into men and teach the sport of football, but also impart them a little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with a newspaper in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his former player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a great young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my last game, 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 Legacy

Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.

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