Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold is in the process of finding a kidney transplant. He’s been battling chronic kidney disease for the past three years. The 41-year-old retired athlete, who was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder in 2006, made his appeal public through social media and an announcement from the Jets organization.
Mangold was a longtime first-round pick from Ohio State in 2006. He was an instant favorite in the Jets community and probably one of the most liked players of his generation. To this day, he wears that honor with pride as a Jets’ Ring of Fame member. During his time with the league, he became notable for being a seven-time Pro Bowler and a two-time first-team All-Pro.
In his impassioned message on social media to fans, you could sense the urgency of Mangold’s plight.
“This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health,” – Nick Mangold.
He told us that he’d always expected this day would arrive, he’d been hoping for a little more time to get ready for it.
“I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time,” – Nick Mangold.
The ex-center also reportedly noted that he has no living relatives currently able to donate a kidney. Therefore, he is turning to the fan community of the New York Jets for help.
“Unfortunately, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I’m reaching out to you, our NY Jets community,” – Nick Mangold.
Mangold says she’s forever grateful to anyone who’s willing to even have a conversation about donating a kidney.
“I am deeply grateful to anyone that would consider donating,” – Nick Mangold.
Born on January 13, 1984, Mangold became a staple in the Jets’ lineup during his ten-year career, showcasing remarkable skill as a center. In doing so, he has given the franchise, and its fans, an indelible imprint on the franchise.
Rich, a veteran sports writer, has been covering Mangold and the New York Jets for more than 30 years. Mangold’s appeal was most important, he noted, because of the center’s contributions to the team and community. Rich also hosts the Flight Deck podcast, on which he’s gone in-depth on Mangold’s career and personal struggles.
We can all look forward to seeing Mangold at MetLife Stadium in the near future as fans again. The Jets community will support him as he meets this big health challenge head-on.
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