🔗 Share this article Jets Legend Nick Mangold Dies at 41 Amid Pursuing Kidney Transplant Nick Mangold, a beloved athlete during his eleven-year tenure with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the young age of 41. Health Battle and Public Appeal Earlier this month, Mangold shared he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought help from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in his collegiate years. “Back in 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a challenging 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 thought I would have had more time. “Sadly, I do not have any relatives willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in need of a kidney donor with O-type 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 twice before he stepped away in 2016. During that period, the offensive lineman fortified an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently 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 legendary center,” the team’s owner remarked in a release. “He was the soul of our O-line for a decade and a respected teammate whose leadership and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and steadfast dedication made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.” Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life Mangold was a massive favorite with fans, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was rarely seen 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 region when his career were over, becoming 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 the world as you go along,” Mangold told a newspaper in 2024. Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered his former player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired, my last game, 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 Legacy Mangold was married to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the London Games in the sport of weightlifting. When he revealed his condition he paid tribute to his family, saying they had “been my support every step of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and network behind me.”