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

Health Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, 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 was a star in college.

“In 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had more time.

“Sadly, I do not have any relatives 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 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 team, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an 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 contributed to the Jets advance to 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 four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a legendary center,” franchise ownership said in a statement. “He was the core of our O-line for a ten years and a beloved teammate whose leadership and grit defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with fans, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and engaging personality. He was active on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets games after his retirement – 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 men and teach the sport of football, but also impart them a something about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his former player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “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 fired, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he approaches to me and says, ‘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 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in weightlifting.

When he announced his illness he praised his loved ones, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This situation has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an incredible family, friends, and community behind me.”