🔗 Share this article New York Jets Legend Nick Mangold Passes Away at 41 While Seeking Kidney Transplant Nick Mangold, an adored player during his 11-season career with the New York Jets, has passed away at the age of 41. Medical Battle and Community Appeal Earlier in the month, Mangold shared he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought support from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he shone in college. “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 seek a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I hoped I would have had additional years. “Unfortunately, I do not have any relatives able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m turning to you, our Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in search 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, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he stepped away in 2016. During that era, the offensive lineman anchored an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was universally praised and he sat out only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league. “Nick was not just a legendary center,” the team’s owner stated in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a ten years and a beloved teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.” Fan Favorite and Later Life Mangold was a massive favorite with supporters, recognized for his flowing locks, facial hair, charitable work and engaging character. He was engaged on social media and was seldom spotted 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 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 instruct the game of football, but also impart them a little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with a newspaper in 2024. Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a great young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.” Family Life and Legacy Mangold was married 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 condition he thanked his loved ones, stating they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, companions, and community behind me.”