by: Nick Kosko 51 minutes ago nickkosko59
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold passed away Saturday night at the age of 41, the team announced. He passed due to complications with kidney disease.
Mangold, who played at Ohio State from 2002-2005 before being drafted by the New York Jets (where he played from 2006-2019), revealed that he was diagnosed with a genetic defect that led to chronic kidney disease in 2006.
“Nick was more than a legendary center,” Jets Chairman Woody Johnson said in a release. “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 played his entire career with the Jets from 2006-16. He was named First-Team All-Pro twice (2009, ’10), Second-Team All-Pro in 2011 and was a seven-time Pro Bowler during his time. He played during the Jets’ runs to the AFC Championship Game in back to back seasons during the heyday under Rex Ryan.
Mangold was also inducted into the Jets Ring of Honor following a successful career in the pros. He was also a stud in college at Ohio State, winning a national title in 2002, which eventually turned him into a No. 29 overall pick in 2006.