Former NFL star offensive lineman Nick Mangold enjoyed a long career after being drafted by the New York Jets with the No. 29 pick in the 2006 NFL Draft out of Ohio State.
As he was preparing for the draft that year, he was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has ended up leading to chronic kidney disease.
On Tuesday, he posted an update on X, where he announced that he was looking for help as he now needs a kidney transplant.
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In the statement, Mangold mentioned that he is in need of a donor with type O blood, while also posting a link if anybody is interested in seeing if they are a match.
Mangold spent all 11 seasons in the NFL with the Jets, where he became a fan favorite because his long hair, and his competitive spirit. He was named All-pro three times during his time with the Jets. He was named First-team All-Pro in 2009 and 2010, and was Second-team in 2011.
During his time in New York, the Jets ranked in the top 10 rushing the ball six times, leading the league in 2009. He was a huge reason why the Jets made it to the AFC Championship game in 2010 and 2011. In 2022, he was inducted into the Jets ‘Ring of Honor.’
After playing his high school football in Westerville, Ohio, Mangold stayed in state and played college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
He started 33 of his 45 games in Columbus, and was named All-Big Ten twice in his career, while winning a national title in 2002.
On the football field, there aren’t many guys who were tougher and more giving to his teammates. As a center in the NFL, the job is not a glamorous one, and many times is the guy who doesn’t get talked about a lot.
Mangold is in a rare class where even as the center, he was one of the most beloved players by the fans. He is undoubtedly one of the two best centers to ever play for the Jets, as Kevin Mawae is the other guy who is in the conversation.
In his post, Mangold thanked his fans and said he looks forward to being back at MetLife Stadium and in Columbus with his fans very soon.
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