Former Ohio State football player Nick Mangold was one of the best centers in the history of the program. He was someone who was beloved both on and off the field for what he was able to do. Tragically, Mangold has now passed away at the age of 41.
Just a couple of weeks ago, Mangold was pleading with the public to help find him a kidney. He mentioned that he had kidney disease, but no one knew just how dire of a situation it was. When he came out asking for help, it seemed like he was going to be able to find the kidney that he needed.
Mangold was one of the best players that the Ohio State Buckeyes had. He was a national champion in 2002 and was a first-team All-American in 2005 before he is was drafted in the first round by the New York Jets. Mangold's career with the Jets was even better than it was with Ohio State.
Former Ohio State center Nick Mangold passes away at 41
While Mangold was with the Jets, he was named to the Pro Bowl seven times. He was also a two-time first-team All-Pro performer. He was named second-team All-Pro once, as well. Mangold was named to the Jets Ring of Honor, and will have his name forever in MetLife Stadium.
Mangold likely would have been able to find a kidney from someone, but perhaps he was too far down the line in his disease to be truly considered for a transplant. He was born with a genetic disorder that caused this disease, so it wasn't something that he could control.
There will likely be a moment of silence on Saturday in the Shoe when the Buckeyes take on Penn State. Mangold was a beloved player and person within the Ohio State community. This is truly a devastataing loss.