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Nick Mangold, a former center for the New York Jets and a beloved figure in the team’s history, has passed away at the age of 41, the team announced on Sunday.
The Jets revealed through a statement on social media that Mangold succumbed to complications related to kidney disease on Saturday night.
His passing comes shortly after Mangold, a two-time All-Pro, publicly disclosed his battle with kidney disease and the urgent need for a transplant. He had reached out for a type O blood donor, as he had no immediate family members who could donate.
In a heartfelt message aimed at the Jets and Ohio State communities, Mangold shared his struggle. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time,” he expressed.
Despite the challenging times, Mangold remained hopeful. “While this has been a tough stretch, I’m staying positive and focused on the path ahead. I’m looking forward to better days and getting back to full strength soon. I’ll see you all at MetLife Stadium & The Shoe very soon,” he conveyed optimistically.
Mangold said he was diagnosed with a genetic defect in 2006 that led to chronic kidney disease. He was on dialysis while waiting for a transplant.
“Nick was more than a legendary center,” Jets owner Woody Johnson said in a statement. “He was the heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade and a beloved teammate whose leadership and toughness defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family.”
Mangold was a first-round draft pick of the Jets in 2006 out of Ohio State and was selected to the Pro Bowl seven times. He was enshrined in the Jets’ ring of honor in 2022.
Mangold is survived by his wife, Jennifer, and their four children Matthew, Eloise, Thomas and Charlotte.