🔗 Share this article New York Jets Icon Nick Mangold Dies at 41 Amid Seeking Kidney Transplant Nick Mangold, a beloved player during his eleven-year tenure with the Jets franchise, has died at the young age of 41. Health Struggle and Public Appeal In early announcements, Mangold shared he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He sought help from supporters of the Jets and Ohio State, where he was a star in his collegiate years. “In 2006, I was found to have a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a challenging summer, I’m on dialysis as we search for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I believed I would have had more time. “Regrettably, 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 first-round pick out of Ohio State for the Jets in 2006. He spent his entire professional football career with the franchise, earning 7 trips to the Pro Bowl and was an All-Pro on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that era, the center led an offensive line together with D’Brickashaw Ferguson that contributed to the Jets advance to two AFC championship games. He is presently a candidate 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 not just a iconic center,” the team’s owner stated in a release. “He was the core of our O-line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose guidance and toughness defined an period of Jets football. Away from the game, Nick’s humor, warmth, and steadfast dedication made him a treasured member of our extended Jets family.” Fan Favorite and Post-Retirement Life Mangold was a huge favourite with supporters, known for his flowing locks, beard, philanthropy and engaging character. He was engaged on digital platforms and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his retirement – he chugged a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and stayed in the area when his career were over, becoming 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 life as you go along,” Mangold shared with the press in 2024. Former coach Rex Ryan, who coached Mangold at the Jets, was in tears as he recalled his former player on television. “It’s brutal,” Ryan said. “Such a wonderful young man. I had the honor of coaching him for the full six seasons with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting released, my final match, Mangold’s injured – like, injured – and he approaches to me and says, ‘I’m participating in this game.’ And he desired to play for me.” Personal Life and Impact Mangold was married to his childhood sweetheart, 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 condition he praised his family, stating they had “been my rock every step of the way. This situation has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such an amazing home, companions, and community behind me.”