In a somber moment for the New York sports community and the NFL at large, former New York Jets center Nick Mangold passed away at the age of 41. He died on Saturday night after a valiant but ultimately unsuccessful battle with chronic kidney disease.

From Ohio roots to NFL elite

Born on January 13, 1984 in Centerville, Ohio, Mangold’s journey from the heartland to NFL stardom was built on durability, intelligence and leadership.

He starred at Ohio State Buckeyes before being selected in the first round (29th overall) of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Jets.

From the moment he stepped into the league, Mangold established himself as the anchor of the Jets’ offensive line — the kind of player whose performance often goes unseen but is essential to every successful play. He started 164 of 176

See Full Page