Nick Mangold, former Jets center, dies at 41 from kidney disease

Nick Mangold, the former New York Jets center and seven-time Pro Bowler, died Saturday night from complications of chronic kidney disease, the Jets announced Sunday. He was 41. Mangold had publicly revealed on Oct. 14 that he was undergoing dialysis and seeking a kidney transplant after a genetic defect diagnosed in 2006 led to progressive kidney failure.

Mangold, who spent his entire 11-year NFL career with the Jets from 2006 through 2016, asked the public for help after family members were found to be ineligible to donate. In his October message he wrote that he had "always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time," and he thanked family, friends and the community for their support. The team confirmed his death on the eve of the Jets game in Cincinnati, near Mangold's hometown of Centerville, Ohio.

Jets owner Woody Johnson issued a statement calling Mangold "more than a legendary center" and describing him as the "heartbeat of our offensive line for a decade." Johnson said Mangold's leadership and toughness defined an era of Jets football and praised his wit, warmth and loyalty. The New England Patriots and other teams also offered condolences,...