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The New York Jets have announced the sudden death of legendary player Nick Mangold at the age of 41.
The iconic center, who played his entire 10-year NFL career with New York, revealed only 12 days ago that he desperately needed a transplant as he battled chronic kidney disease.
But on Sunday, barely an hour ahead of the Jets' game against the Bengals, the team announced that the 41-year-old had died Saturday night after complications related to his kidney disease.
'Nick was more than a legendary center,' Jets chairman 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.'
Earlier this month, Mangold announced that he needed a new kidney, issuing a public plea to fans to help him find a donor. Back in 2006, he was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder.
The Jets have announced the death of legendary player Nick Mangold at the age of 41
Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he needed a new kidney and issued a plea to find a donor
'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 more time,' the 41-year-old said.
Mangold, who said he was looking for a donor with Type O blood, paid tribute to his family for being his 'rock every step of the way.'
'While this has been a tough stretch, I'm staying positive and focused on the path ahead,' he added. 'I'm looking forward to better days and getting back to full strength soon.'
Mangold was selected by the Jets in the first round of the 2006 draft and went on start 164 games, earning Pro Bowl selection seven times.
The center won a national championship for the Ohio State Buckeyes and later played in seven playoff games for the Jets.
His time in New York came to an end after the 2016 season, during which he suffered a season-ending ankle injury.
The Jets released him in the offseason but welcomed him back on a one-day deal in 2018 so he could retire with the franchise.
'Nick was the embodiment of consistency, strength, and leadership,' Jets vice chairman Christopher Johnson said.
Mangold was drafted by the Jets in the first round in 2006 and played 10 years with the team
'For over a decade, he anchored our offensive line with unmatched skill and determination, earning the respect of teammates, opponents, and fans alike.
'His contributions on the field were extraordinary — but it was his character, humility, and humor off the field that made him unforgettable.'
The New England Patriots were among those to pay tribute to Mangold. '[We] are saddened to learn of the sudden passing of former Jets center Nick Mangold,' the team wrote on social media. 'We send our condolences to his family, friends and all who loved him.'
Mangold is currently among 52 modern greats being considered for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
