This is very sad news.
The New York Jets announced on Sunday that franchise legend Nick Mangold has passed away at the age of 41.
Mangold died due to complications from kidney disease.
"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."
Mangold spent his entire NFL career with the Jets. He made seven Pro Bowls and two All Pros.
The Jets selected Mangold with the 29th overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft out of Ohio State. Mangold appeared in 164 games with New York.
"It's brutal. Such a great young man. I had the pleasure of coaching him for all six years [I was coach] with the Jets," former Jets head coach Rex Ryan told ESPN. "I remember, it was obvious I was getting fired, my last game Mangold is injured -- like injured -- and he comes to me and says, 'I'm playing this game.' And he went in and played for me.
"That's what I remember about this kid. He was awesome and just way too young. I feel so bad for his wife and family."
Mangold's death came 12 days after he made a public appeal for a kidney transplant.
"Nick was a great man in every aspect ... an all-time teammate and a great friend ... heartbroken for his family," former Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick told ESPN on Sunday.
Mangold is survived by his wife, Jennifer, and their four children Matthew, Eloise, Thomas and Charlotte.