New York Jets release C Nick Mangold after 11 seasons

The New York Jets released center Nick Mangold on Saturday after 11 seasons with the team in a cost-saving move.

The 33-year-old Mangold, who doesn't plan to retire, was heading into the final year of his contract. He was slated to take up $9.075 million in salary cap space with his $6.075 million base salary and $2.4 million bonus for training camp.

The Jets are rebuilding after a 5-11 season in 2016.

"For the past 11 years, Nick Mangold has been a cornerstone of our team both on and off the field," Jets owner Woody Johnson said in a statement. "As our Pro Bowl center, Nick consistently demonstrated superior skill and unmatched toughness. Equally important, off the field, Nick exhibited respect, sensitivity and compassion for the causes he supported.

"It has been a privilege to have known Nick these many years and, for all of us, I say Nick will always be a Jet."

Mangold, the Jets' first-round pick in 2006, started 164 out of 176 games over an 11-year span. He made seven Pro Bowls and was a two-time All-Pro selection.

Mangold missed eight games last season because of an ankle injury that almost required surgery. He returned after sitting out four games but aggravated the injury and was placed on injured reserve for the final four games.

"A great person, a great player," Jets coach Todd Bowles said in a statement. "You could always count on Nick's smarts, consistency and poise. Nick's knowledge of the game and ability to quickly process information made him an invaluable resource to his teammates. He will always mean a lot to everyone in this organization."

Mangold made the announcement on his Twitter account before the Jets officially released him.

"As will be announced by the team shortly, my time as a New York Jet has come to an end," Mangold wrote. "While this is a sad day to leave so many great coaches, teammates and executives, I look forward to seeing what the future holds for me. My family and I will always be grateful to Mr. Johnson and the entire organization for making me a Jet. I truly want to thank the fans for their amazing support over the past 11 years. It meant a lot to see all the #74 jerseys in the crowd every Sunday. Thank you all for a fantastic 11 years!"