Former New York Jets All-Pro center Nick Mangold said Tuesday he has been battling chronic kidney disease for nearly 19 years and is undergoing dialysis.

Mangold addressed his health situation in a plea posted on social media where he appealed for a kidney donor.

“This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health,” the former lineman stated in a statement addressed to the Jets and Ohio State University communities. Mangold won a national championship with the Buckeyes in 2002.

“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,” the 41-year-old wrote. “I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would ha

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