🔗 Share this article New York Jets Icon Nick Mangold Passes Away at 41 While Seeking Kidney Transplant Nick Mangold, an adored athlete during his eleven-year career with the Jets franchise, has passed away at the age of 41. Medical Struggle and Public Appeal Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he had been receiving dialysis and needed a kidney transplant. He reached out for help from fans 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 resulted in chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I was always aware this day would come, but I hoped 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 reaching out to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State families. 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 team, securing seven trips to the Pro Bowl and was a league All-Pro on two occasions before he retired in 2016. During that time, the offensive lineman led an O-line alongside D’Brickashaw Ferguson that helped the Jets reach two AFC championship games. He is currently a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Mangold’s resilience was universally praised and he missed only 4 games in his first 10 seasons in the league. “Nick was not just a legendary center,” the team’s owner remarked in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose guidance and grit characterized an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a cherished member of our broader Jets family.” Beloved Figure and Post-Retirement Life Mangold was a massive favourite with fans, known for his long hair, beard, philanthropy and engaging personality. He was active on social media and was seldom spotted without his reverse baseball cap. He was a frequent attendee to Jets matches after his playing days – he downed a beer while being inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor in 2022 – and remained in the area when his playing days were over, becoming an coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey. “You get to mold young men into adults and instruct the game of football, but also teach them a little bit about life as you go along,” Mangold told the press in 2024. Ex- head coach Rex Ryan, who led Mangold at the Jets, was emotional as he remembered his ex- player on a sports show. “It’s heartbreaking,” Ryan commented. “Such a wonderful person. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was clear I was getting fired, my final match, Mangold’s hurt – like, seriously hurt – and he comes to me and says, ‘I’m playing this game.’ And he desired to play for me.” Personal 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 London Games in weightlifting. When he announced his condition he thanked his loved ones, saying they had “been my rock every step of the way. This circumstance has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing home, friends, and community behind me.”