Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold died Saturday night from complications of kidney disease, the team announced Sunday. He was 41 years old.<\/p>\n
“Nick was more than a legendary center,” Jets owner Woody Johnson said<\/a> 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.”<\/p>\n Mangold announced earlier this month he was diagnosed with a genetic defect in 2006 that led to him having chronic kidney disease. He was on dialysis while seeking a transplant.<\/p>\n “While this has been a tough stretch, I’m staying positive and focused on the path ahead,” Mangold said on Oct. 14<\/a>. “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.”<\/p>\n A first-round pick out of Ohio State in 2006, Mangold spent all 11 of his NFL seasons with the Jets, accruing seven Pro Bowl trips and two All-Pro honors. He was the centerpiece of a Jets offensive line that paved the way for Gang Green’s latest stretch of success with consecutive AFC Championship Game appearances in 2009 and 2010.<\/p>\n