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

Health Battle and Community Appeal

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for assistance from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in college.

“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 wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I believed I would have had more time.

“Sadly, I do not have any family 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 type O blood.”

Storied 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 franchise, securing 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman 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 resilience 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 stated in a release. “He was the core of our O-line for a decade and a cherished teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, warmth, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.”

Beloved Figure and Later Life

Mangold was a huge favorite with fans, known for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and outgoing character. He was active on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets matches after his playing days – he downed a beer while being honored into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his career were over, taking on the role of an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey.

“You get to mold young men into adults and instruct the sport of football, but also impart them a something about the world as you go along,” Mangold told a newspaper in 2024.

Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered his former player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting released, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, represented USA at the London Games in weightlifting.

When he revealed his condition he paid tribute to his loved ones, saying they had “been my support every phase of the way. This situation has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible family, friends, and network behind me.”