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Nick Mangold, a beloved athlete during his 11-season career with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the age of 41.

Health Struggle and Public Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold disclosed he had been receiving 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.

“Back 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 look for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had longer.

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

Storied Football Career

Mangold was a first-round pick 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 an All-Pro twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the center fortified an offensive 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 toughness was widely admired and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league.

“Nick was more than a iconic center,” franchise ownership stated in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favourite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging character. He was active on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets games after his playing days – he downed 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 assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to shape young men into men and teach the game of football, but also teach them a little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024.

Former head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his former player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Personal Life and Impact

Mangold was wed to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in the sport of weightlifting.

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