New York Jets legend Nick Mangold has announced that he is battling chronic kidney disease and urgently needs a kidney transplant. The 41-year-old former centre made a public plea on social media on Tuesday, asking fans to come forward as potential donors.
Mangold revealed that he is currently undergoing dialysis after a difficult summer. 'I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have more time,' he said. He specified that he requires a donor with Type O blood, as his family members are unable to donate at present.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Mangold expressed optimism. 'While this has been a tough stretch, I'm staying positive and focused on the path ahead,' he wrote. 'I'm looking forward to better days and getting back to full strength soon.'
Mangold was drafted by the Jets in the first round in 2006 and played his entire 10-year NFL career with the franchise, starting all 164 games and earning seven Pro Bowl selections. He also won a national championship with Ohio State and played in seven playoff games for the Jets. After his release in 2017, he signed a one-day contract in 2018 to retire as a Jet.
In addition to his health update, Mangold commented on the recent legal troubles of his former teammate Mark Sanchez, who faces up to 16 years in prison over a violent altercation. Mangold told the New York Post that the allegations are 'completely out of character' for Sanchez, whom he has known for 16 years. 'The Mark I know wouldn't do this,' he said.
