Jets star Nick Mangold has died at the age of 41

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” Jets chairman Woody Johnson said. “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.”

Johnson added, “Off the field, Nick’s humor, warmth and unwavering loyalty made him a beloved member of our extended Jets family.”

Mangold, who has been open about his health issues, had shared an emotional update with fans earlier this month. On October 14, the team posted a message from him on Instagram explaining that his kidney problems stemmed from a genetic defect identified nearly two decades ago.

“This is not an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what happened to me and my health,” Mangold said at the time. ‘In 2006 that was me diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease.”

“After a rough summer, I am on dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant,” he continued. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.”