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Nick Mangold, a beloved player during his eleven-year career with the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41.

Health Struggle and Public Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought help from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in his collegiate years.

“In 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m on 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 longer.

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

Illustrious NFL 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, securing 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that time, the center anchored an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was highly respected and he missed only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner stated in a statement. “He was the core of our O-line for a ten years and a respected teammate whose guidance and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and engaging character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets matches after his retirement – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the area when his career 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 little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Former coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Family Life and Legacy

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 weightlifting.

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