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

Health Battle and Community Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He reached out for assistance from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years.

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

“Regrettably, I do not have any family 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 type O blood.”

Storied Football Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his whole professional football career with the team, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman fortified an offensive line together with 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 universally praised and he missed only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner said in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our O-line for a ten years and a beloved teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, warmth, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favourite with fans, recognized for his long hair, facial hair, charitable work and outgoing character. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen 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 playing days were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold young men into adults 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 in tears as he remembered his former player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a great person. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

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

When he announced his illness he thanked his loved ones, saying they had “been my support every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, friends, and community behind me.”