Keywords: Nick Mangold death, Jets legend, kidney disease, NFL obituary, Woody Johnson tribute, Ohio State Buckeyes, chronic kidney failure, dialysis

The football world is reeling after the sudden passing of New York Jets legend Nick Mangold, who died on October 26 at just 41 years old — only two weeks after revealing he was battling chronic kidney disease.

Mangold, a cornerstone of the Jets’ offensive line for over a decade, had recently gone public with his health struggles in a heartfelt social media letter addressed to his New York Jets and Ohio State Buckeyes communities.

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“In 2006, I was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease,”
Mangold wrote.

“After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant. I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.”
A Plea for Help — and a Show of Gratitude

The Ohio native, known for his humility and humor, had revealed that none of his family members were eligible donors, prompting him to reach out to his wider football community.

“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.”