Jets’ Ownership Faces Backlash from Players in NFLPA Report Card
In the world of professional sports, few things are as telling as the opinions of the players themselves. This week, New York Jets owner Woody Johnson found himself in the crosshairs of his own team, as the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) released its annual team report cards. The results were less than flattering for Johnson, who has been under fire from fans and media alike following a disappointing 2024 season.
The NFLPA’s survey, which gathered feedback from 1,695 players across the league, revealed that the Jets players gave their ownership an F grade. This made the Jets the only team in the league to receive such a low mark in this category. The overall ranking for the Jets, based on grades in 11 different categories, plummeted to 29th, a significant drop from their 21st place finish in 2023.
According to the NFLPA, the players cited “perceived top leadership issues,” with some describing these as “top-down problems.” This sentiment was reflected in the ownership grade, which fell from a B- to an F, with Johnson receiving the lowest score for contributing to a positive team culture.
The report card was critical of the Jets’ approach in several areas. The NFLPA noted that instead of addressing concerns, players felt that management responded to feedback by worsening conditions. A prime example of this was the team’s decision to cut the food budget after receiving low grades for their food program in 2023. Additionally, the Jets did not retain their longtime dietitian, who was previously their highest-rated staff member. This dietitian was subsequently hired by the Kansas City Chiefs, who saw improvements in their food program and dietitian grades.
When asked what needed the most improvement, players overwhelmingly pointed to the food program, although they did express some appreciation for their new dietitian.
Johnson, who is 77 years old, made headlines last fall by firing coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas during the season. This marked the first time in his 25 years of ownership that he made such moves in-season. The decision to replace Saleh with defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich did not yield the desired results, as the Jets lost nine of their last 12 games, finishing the season with a 5-12 record. Johnson’s increased involvement in personnel decisions reportedly caused friction within the organization.
Interestingly, despite the turmoil, the players graded the “head coach” position a B, although this still ranked only 25th in the league.
In response to the criticism, Johnson has acknowledged the need for improvement. “Absolutely, I have to look in the mirror, and I have to be a better owner,” he stated last month during the introductory press conference for new coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey. “And I’m trying to be better.”
- Jets’ ownership received an F grade from players.
- Overall team ranking dropped from 21st to 29th.
- Players cited leadership issues and poor team culture.
- Food program and dietitian changes were major concerns.
- Johnson’s in-season firings and personnel decisions were controversial.
As the Jets look to turn the page on a tumultuous season, the feedback from the NFLPA report card serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead. For Woody Johnson, the path to redemption will require more than just words; it will demand meaningful changes that resonate with both players and fans alike.
Originally Written by: Rich Cimini
