The New York Jets, a storied franchise that has seen its share of highs and lows, currently find themselves at a nadir following a disappointing 2024 season. Ownership under Woody Johnson, who has faced heavy criticism from both fans and the media, is now receiving formidable backlash from the very players who wear the green and white. The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) recently published its annual team report card, revealing a staggering disconnect between the Jets’ ownership and its players. Uniquely, the Jets received an F grade from their players — a distinction that no other team in the league shares.
This year’s report card shows the Jets ranking at a disheartening 29th out of 32 teams, a substantial drop from their position at 21st the previous year. The NFLPA provides insight into this decline by citing “top-down problems” linked to Johnson’s leadership style. Significant complaints centered on the lack of initiative from ownership to address player concerns, a situation players believe has only worsened instead of improving over time. The NFLPA explicitly pointed out how Johnson’s inability to foster a positive team culture has turned into a significant issue, as reflected in the ownership grade plummeting from a B- in 2023 to an F in 2024.
One area where Jets management has notably missed the mark is the food program. Rather than taking player feedback into account, the response from the organization was to actually reduce the food budget, which had already received poor evaluations in the previous year. The absence of a long-serving dietitian — previously the team’s highest-rated staff member — has further driven discontent. Without this professional, the Jets have witnessed an increase in negative sentiment regarding nutrition and meal quality among their players as they witnessed the Kansas City Chiefs, who hired that same dietitian, improve their meal services.
Woody Johnson’s management strategy has also been under scrutiny. His decision last season to terminate head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas mid-season marked an unprecedented shift in his long-term ownership approach. The subsequent appointment of defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich backfired spectacularly, with the Jets managing to win only five games out of a possible 17. The lack of a cohesive vision from ownership has led to friction and dissatisfaction within the organization, made glaringly evident by the players’ reactions to the overall management style.
Despite the turmoil and overwhelming criticism, Johnson has publicly acknowledged the urgent need for introspection and improvement. At a recent press conference introducing new hires, he stated, “Absolutely, I have to look in the mirror, and I have to be a better owner.” As the Jets look to rebound, it remains to be seen whether Johnson will adjust his approach to foster a more positive relationship with his players and create an environment where talent can flourish. The franchise’s future relies heavily on its ability to learn from this challenging period and prioritize the well-being of its players. Only then can the Jets hope to turn the tide and regain their place in the competitive landscape of the NFL.
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