Nick Mangold, long-time New York Jets offensive lineman and franchise legend, has passed away due to complications from kidney disease at the age of 41 on Saturday night, the team confirmed on Sunday.

"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. Off the field, Nick's wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty made him a cherished member of our extended Jets family... Nick Mangold will forever be a Jet."

Mangold, who had been fighting this disease since 2006, had recently announced in a letter on social media that he was in need of a kidney transplant after needing to undergo dialysis treatments.

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