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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.

Health Battle and Community Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold revealed he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought help from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in college.

“Back in 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I believed I would have had more time.

“Regrettably, 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 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 dedicated his whole professional football career with the franchise, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman fortified an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was widely admired and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” the team’s owner stated in a release. “He was the core of our offensive 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 humor, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and engaging character. He was active on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets games 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 career were over, taking on the role of an assistant 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 impart them a little bit 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 recalled his former player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m playing 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 sibling, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting.

When he revealed his condition he paid tribute to his family, saying they had “been my support every phase of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible home, companions, and community behind me.”