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Nick Mangold, a beloved player during his eleven-year career with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the age of 41.

Health Battle and Public Appeal

Earlier in the month, Mangold shared he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in college.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed to have a genetic defect that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he stated at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I thought 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 NY Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in search 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 spent his whole professional football career with the franchise, earning 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 led an offensive line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to 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 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league.

“Nick was not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner said in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.”

Fan Favorite and Later Life

Mangold was a massive favorite with supporters, recognized for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging character. He was active on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets matches after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his career were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

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

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he recalled his former player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a great young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.”

Family Life and Impact

Mangold was wed to his longtime partner, 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 revealed his illness he praised his family, saying they had “been my support every phase of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and network behind me.”