By Zack Rosenblatt, Dianna Russini and Michael Silver
Woody Johnson made his own decisions and did his own research. At his home in Palm Beach, Florida in February, the New York Jets’ owner was discussing potential offseason acquisitions while watching game tape with decision-makers. Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy, formerly of the Denver Broncos, caught their eye. Jets general manager Joe Douglas showed interest, and Johnson, not convinced, decided against the trade due to Jeudy’s low rating in the game “Madden NFL”. The trade talks with the Broncos ceased, and Jeudy was later traded to the Cleveland Browns. The decision by Johnson proved to be a costly one, as Jeudy went on to hit the 1,000-yard receiving mark for the first time in his career last Sunday.
The season that followed only solidified the Jets’ dysfunctional reputation. Despite hoping to end their 13-year playoff drought, the Jets went through multiple changes, including the mid-season firing of head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas. Johnson also suggested benching quarterback Aaron Rodgers due to poor performance, and later traded for Davante Adams, Rodgers’ former teammate, in an attempt to salvage the season. The team is currently sitting at a disappointing 4-10 record and will miss the postseason for the 14th consecutive year.
The dysfunction within the Jets organization is largely attributed to Johnson, who is seen as an impulsive and overly-involved owner. According to over 20 anonymous sources within and around the Jets organization, Johnson has made questionable decisions, relied on his teenage sons’ opinions, and even referenced “Madden” ratings in player evaluations.