🔗 Share this article Jets Legend Nick Mangold Dies at 41 While Seeking Kidney Transplant Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his eleven-year tenure with the New York Jets, has died at the young age of 41. Health Battle and Public Appeal Earlier this month, Mangold shared he had been undergoing dialysis and required a kidney transplant. He sought help from fans of the Jets and Ohio State, where he excelled in college. “Back in 2006, I was diagnosed to have a hereditary condition that has resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a difficult summer, I’m on dialysis as we seek a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped I would have had additional years. “Regrettably, I do not have any relatives able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State families. I am in need of a kidney donor with O-type blood.” Illustrious 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 franchise, securing 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro twice before he retired in 2016. During that era, the center fortified an O-line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is presently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s toughness was widely admired and he sat out only four games in his first 10 seasons in the league. “Nick was not just a legendary center,” franchise ownership remarked in a release. “He was the heartbeat of our O-line for a decade and a respected teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an era of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, kindness, and unwavering dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.” Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life Mangold was a huge favourite with fans, known for his long hair, facial hair, philanthropy and engaging character. He was active on digital platforms and was rarely seen without his backwards baseball cap. He was a regular attendee to Jets games 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 playing days were over, taking on the role of an 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 teach them a something about the world as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024. Former 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 commented. “Such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I recall it was obvious I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, seriously hurt – and he approaches to me and states, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he wanted to play for me.” Family Life and Legacy Mangold was married to his childhood sweetheart, Jenny, with whom he had 4 children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte. His sister, Holley, competed for USA at the London Games in the sport of weightlifting. When he revealed his illness he praised his loved ones, stating they had “been my rock every phase of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible family, companions, and network behind me.”