🔗 Share this article Jets Icon Nick Mangold Dies at 41 Amid Seeking Kidney Transplant Nick Mangold, a cherished athlete during his 11-season career with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the young age of 41. Medical Struggle and Public Appeal In early announcements, Mangold disclosed he had been undergoing dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought help from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in his collegiate years. “Back in 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect 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 additional years. “Unfortunately, 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 communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.” Illustrious Football 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 franchise, earning seven 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 led an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was widely admired and he sat out only four games in his initial ten seasons in the league. “Nick was not just a legendary center,” franchise ownership stated in a statement. “He was the soul of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose guidance and toughness characterized an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s wit, kindness, and unwavering loyalty made him a treasured 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 outgoing personality. He was engaged on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent visitor to Jets matches after his retirement – he chugged a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the region when his playing days were over, becoming an assistant coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey. “You get to shape 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 a newspaper in 2024. Former coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his ex- player on television. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful person. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, injured – and he comes to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.” Family Life and Legacy Mangold was wed to his longtime partner, Jenny, with whom he had four kids, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sibling, Holley, represented USA at the London Games in the sport of weightlifting. When he revealed his illness he thanked his loved ones, saying they had “been my rock every step of the way. This situation has made me realize how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, companions, and community behind me.”