Mark Sanchez Breaks Silence After Stabbing Arrest to Mourn Late Teammate Nick Mangold

NFL alum Mark Sanchez returned to social media for the first time since his shocking arrest to mourn his former New York Jets teammate Nick Mangold after his death at 41.

“We lost a good man today. I know @realnickmangold will be a hall-of-famer, but there’s more to his story than his accomplishments on the gridiron,” Sanchez, 38, wrote via Instagram on Sunday, October 26. “He was more than a teammate. He was my big brother who introduced me to the NFL. He showed me the ropes.”

He continued, “He was my friend and confidant. He was a role model and a great father to his children and husband to his wife. Our hearts are heavy. We will miss you. Rest easy amigo. I love you big fella.”

News broke several hours earlier that Mangold had died after complications from kidney disease.

“Nick was more than a legendary center,” Jets chairman Woody Johnson said in a press release shared by the NFL team. “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.”

Ahead of his death, Mangold had been on dialysis to treat his illness.

“This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health,” Mangold wrote via Instagram on October 14. “In 2006, I was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. 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.”