On Sunday morning, the New York Jets announced that legendary center Nick Mangold passed away at the young age of 41 on Saturday from complications of kidney disease.

Just 12 days ago, Mangold called upon both Jets and Ohio State Buckeye fans to help him as he searched for a kidney transplant. 

In that message, Mangold announced that in 2006, he was diagnosed with a genetic defect that led to chronic kidney disease. While his suffering was manageable for nearly 20 years, this summer it took a turn for the worse. 

As the disease attacked him aggressively, Mangold began dialysis as he searched for a donor. The chilling words of his plea ring louder today. He finished his message by saying, "I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time."

The football community grieved hard on Sunday as messages poured in from across the league. One that stood out came from former Cleveland Brown and Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Thomas: "Nick was truly a better person than he was a center - and he was one of the best centers of all time."

Mangold began at Ohio State, where he was a three-year starter. He started at center in 2002 on the Buckeyes' improbable run to the BCS National Championship. He won two Big Ten Championships and was named First Team All-American in 2005.

Over his four seasons in Columbus, the Buckeyes were 43-8 and won four bowl games.

In the 2006 NFL Draft, the Jets selected Mangold 29th overall. He played in 171 games for New York and was named First Team All-Pro in 2009 and 2010, while being named Second Team All-Pro in 2011.

In September, Mangold was honored as one of the 128 eligible modern day players to be nominated for the Hall of Fame.

Jets' Chairman Woody Johnson released a statement on Mangold's passing:

"Nick was more than a legendary center; 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... On behalf of the entire Johnson family and the New York Jets organization, we offer our sincere condolences to Jenny, their four children — Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte — as well as to Nick's extended family, friends, and all who loved him."

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Mangold is survived by his wife Jenny and four children.