Jets legend Nick Mangold makes desperate plea for a kidney donor: ‘I thought I would have more time’
New York Jets legend Nick Mangold has announced he needs a new kidney and issued a public plea to fans in his search for a donor.
The iconic center, who still lives in New Jersey, revealed on social media on Tuesday that he desperately needs a transplant as he battles 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,’ the 41-year-old said.
Mangold said he is looking for a donor with Type O blood and that his family are unable to donate at this time.
‘While this has been a tough stretch, I’m staying positive and focused on the path ahead,’ he added.
‘I’m looking forward to better days and getting back to full strength soon. I’ll see you all at MetLife Stadium & The Shoe very soon.’
Jets legend Nick Mangold revealed he needs a new kidney and issued a plea to find a donor
Mangold was drafted by the Jets in the first round in 2006 and played 10 years with the team
Mangold was drafted by the Jets in the first round in 2006 and he went on to play his entire 10-year NFL career with the franchise.
He started all 164 games he played in and was selected to the Pro Bowl in seven seasons.
Mangold, who won a national championship for the Ohio State Buckeyes, played in seven playoff games for the Jets.
His time in New York came to an end after the 2016 season, during which he suffered a season-ending ankle injury.
The Jets released him in the offseason but welcomed him back on a one-day deal in 2018 so he could retire with the franchise.
Mangold admitted he has been left stunned by the recent allegations against former teammate Mark Sanchez.
Mangold was left stunned by the recent allegations against former teammate Mark Sanchez
Sanchez could face up to 16 years in prison over the violent altercation that saw the ex-NFL star stabbed and left a 69-year-old man battling horrific injuries.
‘The Mark I know wouldn’t do this,’ the former Jets center told the New York Post.
Mangold, who has known Sanchez for 16 years, added: ‘It’s completely out of character… he doesn’t have an aggressive bone in his body.
‘For something of this to happen, something obviously wasn’t right that night, and I hope they get to the bottom of it.’
