The New York Jets have reported the unexpected passing of football legend Nick Mangold at 41. He is survived by his wife and four young children.

Mangold, a celebrated center who spent his entire 10-year NFL tenure with the Jets, had disclosed just 12 days prior that he was in dire need of a kidney transplant while fighting chronic kidney disease.

Tragically, just an hour before the Jets faced the Bengals, news broke on Sunday that Mangold had passed away the previous night due to complications from his illness.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” expressed Jets Chairman Woody Johnson, who regarded Mangold as “one of the greatest to don the green and white.”

Johnson further reminisced, “He embodied the spirit of our offensive line for a decade and was a beloved teammate, whose leadership and resilience defined an era of Jets football. Off the field, Nick’s humor, kindness, and steadfast loyalty made him a treasured part of our Jets family.”

In 2006, Mangold was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition, and earlier this month, he publicly announced his urgent need for a kidney, appealing to fans for a donor. He leaves behind his partner, Jenny, and their children, Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte.

The Jets have announced the death of legendary player Nick Mangold at the age of 41

Earlier this month, Mangold revealed he needed a new kidney and issued a plea to find a donor

The center, who spent a decade in the NFL, leaves behind a wife and four young children

‘After a rough summer, I’m undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant. I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have more time,’ the 41-year-old said.

Mangold, who said he was looking for a donor with Type O blood, paid tribute to his family for being his ‘rock every step of the way.’

‘While this has been a tough stretch, I’m staying positive and focused on the path ahead,’ he added. ‘I’m looking forward to better days and getting back to full strength soon.’

Mangold was selected by the Jets in the first round of the 2006 draft and went on start 171 games for New York, earning seven Pro Bowl selections. The center won a national championship with the Ohio State Buckeyes and later played in seven playoff games for the Jets.

His career in New York came to an end after the 2016 campaign, during which he suffered a season-ending ankle injury.

The Jets released him in the offseason but welcomed him back on a one-day deal in 2018 so he could retire with the franchise.

On Sunday, the Jets paid tribute to Mangold, ‘one of the most iconic and beloved players in franchise history.’ 

Their statement read: ‘He brought unmatched toughness, intelligence, and heart to every snap. But beyond the accolades and the fierce play on the field, Nick was a leader, a teammate, and a friend whose impact extended far beyond the locker room.

‘His legacy is etched into the very fabric of our organization. From his first day in green and white to his induction into the Jets Ring of Honor, Nick represented everything it means to be a Jet—with pride, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence… he will forever be part of the Jets family.

Mangold has been described as ‘one of the greatest to ever wear the green and white’

He was drafted by the Jets in the first round in 2006 and played 10 years with the team

Jets vice chairman Christopher Johnson added: ‘Nick was the embodiment of consistency, strength, and leadership.

‘For over a decade, he anchored our offensive line with unmatched skill and determination, earning the respect of teammates, opponents, and fans alike. 

‘His contributions on the field were extraordinary — but it was his character, humility, and humor off the field that made him unforgettable.’

The New England Patriots were among those to pay tribute to Mangold. ‘[We] are saddened to learn of the sudden passing of former Jets center Nick Mangold,’ the team wrote on social media. 

‘We send our condolences to his family, friends and all who loved him.’

Mangold is currently among 52 modern greats being considered for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.