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

Medical Struggle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years.

“Back in 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had more time.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any relatives able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

Storied NFL 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 team, securing 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that period, the center led an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience 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,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the core of our offensive line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, warmth, and steadfast dedication made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, beard, charitable work and outgoing personality. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets games after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his playing days were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired 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 sister, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in the sport of weightlifting.

When he announced his condition he praised his family, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible home, companions, and network behind me.”