🔗 Share this article New York Jets Icon Nick Mangold Dies at 41 Amid Pursuing Kidney Transplant Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his 11-season career with the Jets franchise, has died at the young age of 41. Medical Battle and Public Appeal Earlier this month, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought support 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 resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he explained at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had longer. “Regrettably, I do not have any relatives willing to donate at this time, so this is why I’m appealing to you, our Jets and Ohio State followers. I am in need of a kidney donor with O-type blood.” Illustrious Football Career Mangold was a first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He dedicated his entire professional football career with the team, earning seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that time, the center led an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s durability was universally praised and he sat out only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league. “Nick was more than a legendary center,” the team’s owner stated in a statement. “He was the core of our offensive line for a decade and a respected teammate whose leadership and grit defined an period of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our broader Jets family.” Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life Mangold was a massive favorite with fans, known for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was active on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a regular visitor to Jets matches after his retirement – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the region when his playing days were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey. “You get to mold boys into men and instruct the game of football, but also teach them a little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024. Ex- head 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 wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting fired, my last game, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.” Personal Life and Impact Mangold was wed to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had four children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in weightlifting. When he announced his illness he thanked his loved ones, stating they had “been my support every phase of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible home, friends, and community behind me.”