Woody Johnson Faces Criticism Amid Jets’ Tumultuous Season

The New York Jets are once again facing a challenging season, with expectations of missing the playoffs for the 14th consecutive year. Reports have surfaced suggesting issues within the team’s management structure, primarily involving interference by Woody Johnson, the longtime owner of the Jets.

In a report by The Athletic, journalists Dianna Russini and Zack Rosenblatt revealed that Johnson had taken steps to override decisions made by Joe Douglas, the team’s general manager. Allegedly, Johnson circumvented Douglas to dismiss head coach Robert Saleh, with other influential figures in the organization facilitating trades and negotiations.

Earlier this year, Johnson reportedly stood as an obstacle to Douglas’ attempts to strengthen the Jets’ roster. Notably, Douglas was interested in acquiring then-Broncos wide receiver Jerry Jeudy, offering Allen Lazard and a Day 2 draft pick in exchange. Johnson, however, blocked the trade, viewing Jeudy, then 25, as a more desirable option compared to aging free agents.

Jeudy, who was eventually traded to the Cleveland Browns, has since signed an extension and seen significant success, particularly after Jameis Winston stepped in as the starting quarterback following Deshaun Watson‘s season-ending injury. Meanwhile, the Jets’ acquisition attempts in the offseason included various trades and signings such as acquiring edge rusher Haason Reddick, which faced challenges due to discontent with the team’s willingness to extend him.

Johnson’s involvement extended to other personnel decisions including driving efforts to bench certain players like safety Tony Adams, following social media influences. This interference has reportedly made recruiting top management and coaching figures more challenging for the organization.

The Jets, under Johnson’s leadership, have faced increased public scrutiny, particularly regarding his decision-making influenced by external assessments. As Johnson potentially considers reprising his diplomatic role as the former ambassador to the United Kingdom, this would leave the team’s operations in the hands of Christopher Johnson, his brother, in the interim.