The trenches never broke former New York Jets star Nick Mangold. But now he’s facing a battle that’s tougher than any blitz package.
The former All-Pro center revealed Tuesday he’s been fighting chronic kidney disease for nearly 19 years and is now undergoing dialysis.
The iron horse who anchored Gang Green’s offensive line is now searching for something he can’t earn through grit alone – a kidney donor.
Ex-Jets Icon Nick Mangold Pleads for Help, Says He’s Running Out of Time Without a Kidney
Mangold dropped the news on social media with the same no-nonsense approach he used to call protections. Diagnosed in 2006 with a rare genetic disorder, the same year he was drafted, he’s been managing the disease for his entire NFL career. However, his situation took a critical turn this summer.
“In 2006, I was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease,” Mangold wrote. “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.”
— Nick Mangold (@nickmangold) October 14, 2025
The timing seemed too perfect to be random. This July, we lost former Eagles linebacker Bryan Braman to a similar type of aggressive cancer form. Braman’s death hit the NFL community hard because he was just 38 years old. It likely pushed Mangold to stop waiting and start asking for outright help.
With no family members able to donate, the 41-year-old has gone public with his plea. He needs a type O kidney. After years of protecting quarterbacks, now he needs someone to protect him.
Hundreds of Fans Fighting the Same Battle Rally Behind Nick Mangold
Mangold’s post didn’t just spark sympathy; it also exposed a big problem. His mentions were flooded with people fighting identical battles.
One fan shared his own gut punch, penning, “I’m in the same situation as I just learned I have stage 5 kidney disease. I’m about to start my journey with dialysis.”
Another fan revealed they’ve been on dialysis for four-and-a-half years, also hunting for a Type O kidney. They offered to answer Mangold’s questions about treatment. It seems like one warrior helping another.
The comment section turned into an impromptu support group. Someone volunteered for a chain donation program despite not being Type O. Another donor shared they’ve lived a full life 25 years after giving up a kidney.
But some responses cut deeper. “Healthcare in America is so messed up that a professional athlete has to rely on crowdfunding for a life-saving operation,” one fan wrote. “I always hated the Jets but I’m praying you get the care you need.”
The thread proves Mangold isn’t alone in this kidney battle. Hundreds are stuck in the same waiting game, searching for organs while machines keep them alive. His platform just gave them all a voice. if he’s lucky, it’ll help him find the kidney that buys him more time.
