In the NFL Players Association’s (NFLPA) annual report card, New York Jets owner Woody Johnson received the only failing grade among all NFL team owners. The Jets’ 14-year playoff drought, the longest in major North American sports, alongside their failed experiment with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, contributed to this poor assessment.
Johnson’s grade specifically reflected concerns about ownership’s contribution to fostering a positive team culture. Players highlighted “top-down” management issues, with many feeling that their feedback only led to worse conditions.
Aaron Rodgers walks off the field with Davante Adams in the final game of the season for the New York Jets
Jets’ culture of fear and leadership problems
The dissatisfaction from the players was evident, with many describing the “culture of fear” within the organization as a major issue. NFLPA chief strategy officer J.C. Tretter spoke about these concerns at the scouting combine, noting the Jets ranked 29th out of 32 NFL teams in categories such as food, locker room conditions, and the treatment of families. Nearly 1,700 players participated in the survey, reinforcing the gravity of the Jets‘ low ranking.
This “F” grade goes beyond the team’s on-field performance and points to deep-seated issues with leadership and management. The NFLPA’s report revealed an organization that ignored players’ concerns and, in turn, exacerbated the issues. Despite changes in coaching staff, including the firing of the head coach early in the season, the team’s organizational challenges have yet to be resolved.
A new attempt at change?
In an effort to reverse the franchise’s fortunes, Woody Johnson has made more changes to the team’s staff. The hiring of Jets alumnus Aaron Glenn as head coach and Darren Mougey as general manager marks his latest attempt at rebooting the team. However, Johnson, who also served as U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom during the Trump administration, acknowledged the need for improvement at the ownership level. “Absolutely, I have to look in the mirror, and I have to be a better owner,” he said, admitting both the team’s failures and his own role in them.
The NFLPA’s report card sends a loud and clear message: ownership and management need to make significant changes to rebuild trust and foster a positive culture. Until then, the Jets will remain stuck in their long-standing struggles.
