🔗 Share this article New York Jets Legend Nick Mangold Passes Away at 41 Amid Seeking Kidney Transplant Nick Mangold, a beloved athlete during his 11-season career with the New York Jets, has died at the age of 41. Medical Battle and Community Appeal In early announcements, Mangold disclosed he had been receiving dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought assistance from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in college. “In 2006, I was found to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I thought I would have had additional years. “Sadly, I do not have any relatives 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 O-type blood.” Storied 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 team, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that era, the center anchored an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was highly respected and he missed only 4 games in his initial ten seasons in the league. “Nick was not just a legendary center,” franchise ownership remarked in a release. “He was the soul of our O-line for a decade and a respected teammate whose guidance and grit characterized an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering dedication made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.” Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life Mangold was a massive favourite with fans, recognized for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and outgoing character. He was active on social media and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets games after his playing days – he chugged a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the region when his career were over, becoming 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 little bit about the world as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024. Ex- coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I recall it was clear I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.” Family Life and Impact Mangold was married to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had 4 kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, represented USA at the 2012 Olympics in weightlifting. When he revealed his illness he thanked his family, stating they had “been my support every step of the way. This situation has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and network behind me.”