As the entire NFL community receives the grieving news, the heartbreak for the New York Jets runs far deeper than anything on the field.  This is a loss that goes beyond football. A cornerstone of their offensive line and a true leader in the locker room left them mourning. The team announced on Sunday that their seven-time Pro Bowl and two-time First Team All-Pro had passed away at the age of 41.

Former Jets centre Nick Mangold tragically passed away after battling complications from chronic kidney disease. Only 12 days before his passing, he opened up about his need for a kidney transplant as he revealed that he’s been battling a rare genetic kidney disorder since 2006.

“In 2006, I was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he wrote at the time. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.” The NFL veteran also made a public request for a kidney transplant.

“Unfortunately, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood.”

According to Pro Football Reference, over his 11-year career, he started in all 164 of his games. A true ironman for the team, he was rightfully honored with a spot in the Jets’ Ring of Honour back in 2022.

Mangold’s legacy goes far beyond the field and locker room

Mangold missed only four games in his first 10 NFL seasons. The longevity of the 41-year-old was appreciated. Known for his toughness, Mangold acted as the rock of the Jets’ offensive line, leading the charge to two unforgettable AFC championship runs. Then the former All-Pro brought the same grit of football into coaching.

After retiring, Mangold became an assistant coach at a high school in New Jersey. Mangold transitioned smoothly into coaching. He’s been instrumental in guiding Delbarton, one of New Jersey’s powerhouses in football.

“Nick is incredibly able to probably coach a lot of things — kind of what we do with zone offense, gap scheme and the pass protection,” Delbarton head coach Brian Bowers said. “These are things Nick could do at the high school level, college level or professional level. And I think the beauty of Nick is that he has the ability to really understand where our kids are developmentally and really stretch their abilities.”

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He dedicated himself to mentoring young athletes both on and off the field. The Jets and the entire football community mourn the sudden passing of the Pro Football Hall of Fame nominee and remember him for his blue-collar work ethic and impact on the game.

Former coach gets emotional after Mangold’s sudden passing

Former Jets coach Rex Ryan was seen emotional during ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown while talking about Nick Mangold.

“It’s brutal. It’s such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching for all six years with the Jets. I remember it was obvious I was getting fired. My last game. Mangold’ injured, and he comes to me, says ‘I’m playing this game’, and he wanted to point for me. That’s what I remember about this kid. He was awesome and just way too young; that feels so bad for his wife and family.” It truly is difficult news for those who knew him personally and for all the white-green fans.

As the football world bids an emotional farewell to him, it’s amazing to see Mangold still in the mix of coaches and fans. From anchoring the Jets’ O-line for over a decade to being a true leader on and off the field, he has the resume to make any Jets fan proud.