Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold has died due to complications from kidney disease. He was 41.
Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold, a franchise legend who endeared himself to fans and teammates with his blue-collar, every-man demeanor, has died due to complications from kidney disease, the team announced Sunday. He was 41.
Mangold’s death came 12 days after he made a public appeal for a kidney transplant.
„Nick was more than a legendary center“, Jets owner 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.“
We are heartbroken to share the news of Nick Mangold’s sudden passing.
On Oct. 14, Mangold announced that he was diagnosed in 2006 with a rare genetic disorder and that he was undergoing kidney dialysis. He directed his message to the Jets and Ohio State communities, asking for a kidney because no one in his family shared his blood type.
„This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health“, Mangold said at the time.