Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold helped open holes for the team’s running backs and protected the quarterback.

Now, he needs your help.

The 41-year-old Mangold, who is battling kidney disease, needs a kidney transplant.

“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 said in a statement.

“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 community. 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 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. This situation has reminded me how lucky 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 very soon.

Mangold, who was a first-round pick of the Jets out of Ohio State in 2006, played 11 seasons in the NFL, all with the Jets. He made the Pro Bowl seven times and was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2022.