Former Ohio State, Jets center Nick Mangold opens up about genetic defect, is seeking kidney donor

Former All-Pro center Nick Mangold went to social media on Tuesday to reveal that he is seeking a kidney donor.

Mangold, who played at Ohio State from 2002-2005 before being drafted by the New York Jets (where he played from 2006-2019), revealed that he was diagnosed with a genetic defect that led to chronic kidney disease in 2006. 19 years later, Mangold is undergoing dialysis and is now in need of a kidney donor with Type O blood.

His entire statement is below:

“To my NY Jets & Ohio State Buckeyes communities, this isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me in my health,” Mangold wrote. “In 2006, I was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to 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 had more time.”

“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 and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood. If you are willing to find out if you could be a match and donate a kidney to me please go to this site (https://columbiasurgery.org/kidney-transplant) and click the link to indicate I WANT TO DONATE MY KIDNEY. Use my full name, Nicholas Mangold, and my birthday, 1/13/1984. I am deeply grateful to anyone that would consider donating.”

“Most of all, I’m thankful for my family, who have been my rock every step of the way. The situation has reminded me how luck I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and community behind me. While this has been a tough stretch, I’m staying positive and focused on the path ahead. 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.”

If you are indeed a match and are considering donating to Mangold, visit https://columbiasurgery.org/kidney-transplant, click the link to indicate I WANT TO DONATE MY KIDNEY, and then use his full name (Nicholas Mangold) and birthday (1/13/1984).