Former Jets star Nick Mangold seeks kidney donor, urges fans to help amid dialysis treatment

Nick Mangold, former New York Jets center and seven-time Pro Bowler, publicly announced he is undergoing dialysis and urgently needs a kidney transplant due to chronic kidney disease stemming from a genetic condition diagnosed in 2006.

In a heartfelt message released Tuesday, Mangold expressed, “This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health.” He revealed his kidney condition has worsened, requiring dialysis after a challenging summer. Despite anticipating this moment, Mangold said he had hoped for more time before facing this critical stage.

Currently 41 years old, Mangold does not have any family members who can donate a kidney. As a result, he appealed to the New York Jets and Ohio State communities, along with the public, seeking a donor with type O blood. He provided details for potential donors to visit:
and use his full name, Nicholas Mangold, and birthdate, January 13, 1984, to initiate compatibility screening.

Mangold thanked his family and friends for their unwavering support and expressed gratitude to anyone considering donation. “This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and community behind me,” he said. Despite the health struggles, he remains optimistic about his future and looks forward to better days and returning to full strength soon.

Selected in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Jets, Mangold spent his entire 11-season career with the team. Known for his blue-collar toughness, he earned seven Pro Bowl selections and was twice named a first-team All-Pro. In 2022, his contributions were honored with induction into the Jets’ Ring of Honor.
Mangold’s candid appeal highlights the scarcity of compatible kidney donors and the critical need to increase public awareness around living donations, especially among people with the type O blood, known as the universal donor type.
The football community and fans alike have rallied around Mangold, sharing messages of support and hope, emphasizing the urgent importance of organ donation in saving lives. His story underscores the ongoing challenges faced by those with chronic kidney disease and the life-changing impact of organ transplantation.