Former New York Jets centre Nick Mangold has made a public plea for a kidney donor, revealing he is battling chronic kidney disease. The 41-year-old, who played 11 seasons with the Jets, shared the news on Instagram, explaining that he was diagnosed with a genetic defect in 2006 that has led to the condition.
Mangold, who is undergoing dialysis, said he thought he would have more time before needing a transplant. He is seeking a donor with type O blood and has asked fans to register through Columbia University's Irving Medical Center using his full name and birth date.
In his statement, Mangold expressed gratitude for his family and the support from the New York Jets and Ohio State communities. He remains positive and focused on recovery, despite the challenging situation.
Mangold was a first-round pick in the 2006 NFL Draft and spent his entire career with the Jets, making seven Pro Bowl appearances and earning two first-team All-Pro selections. He was inducted into the Jets' Ring of Honour in 2022.
