Jets owner Woody Johnson’s comments at the recent NFL league meetings sparked attention, particularly in light of the “F” grade the team received in the latest NFLPA report card. This grade reflected poor working conditions for players, which Johnson didn’t directly address.
His reaction was more dismissive than defensive, underlining a growing disconnect between team ownership and player expectations. The poor grade contributes to a broader narrative of dysfunction under his leadership.
Praise for Fields, Silence on Wilson Fuels Speculation About Johnson’s Draft Regrets
Johnson made headlines with his enthusiastic remarks about newly acquired quarterback Justin Fields, calling him “a total winner” and praising his potential. However, in doing so, he failed to mention Zach Wilson — the quarterback the Jets selected with the No. 2 overall pick in the same 2021 draft, nine spots ahead of Fields.
This glaring omission raised eyebrows, as it suggested either a lack of support for Wilson or a selective memory on Johnson’s part.
Woody Johnson (NFL)Johnson’s failure to acknowledge Wilson has sparked speculation that he may have never truly supported the pick. At the time of the 2021 draft, Johnson had just returned from serving as the U.S. ambassador to the U.K., which means he technically had time to weigh in on major decisions like drafting a franchise quarterback.
His omission of Wilson may reflect a deeper disapproval or an attempt to distance himself from the failed pick now that Wilson is no longer with the team.
Johnson’s Comments Highlight Leadership Fractures and Reignite Doubts About 2021 Draft Decisions
If Johnson didn’t support drafting Wilson, it subtly throws former general manager Joe Douglas and Johnson’s brother, Christopher, under the bus — both were heavily involved in football operations at the time. Johnson’s recent comments indirectly criticize their judgment and raise questions about the internal dynamics and communication within the Jets’ leadership during that period.
It’s important to note that Zach Wilson was widely considered the consensus No. 2 pick in 2021 behind Trevor Lawrence. Choosing someone like Fields instead would have been a major surprise at the time.
Therefore, Johnson’s apparent backtracking could either be seen as an attempt at revisionist history or a revelation of his actual, previously unspoken opinion. Either way, it casts a shadow on the Jets’ decision-making and highlights the ownership’s inconsistency and lack of accountability.
