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

Health Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He reached out for help from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled 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 on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.

“Sadly, I do not have any family willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Illustrious Football Career

Mangold was a top draft selection out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his entire 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 time, the offensive lineman anchored 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 universally praised and he sat out only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” franchise ownership stated in a statement. “He was the core of our O-line for a ten years and a beloved teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, known for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his playing days were over, taking on the role of an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his former player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a great person. 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, injured – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was married to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in the sport of weightlifting.

When he revealed his condition he thanked his family, stating they had “been my rock every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an incredible family, friends, and community behind me.”