The New York Jets are knee-deep in a full-scale organizational shake-up, and according to reports, the turmoil runs deeper than anyone imagined. Just weeks after cutting ties with head coach Robert Saleh, the Jets followed that by dismissing general manager Joe Douglas, a move that insiders describe as the latest chapter in what has become a "messy, messy situation."
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Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated has painted a bleak picture of the Jets' front office dynamics. Breer previously hinted during Amazon's Thursday Night Football broadcast that tensions were boiling over in the organization, with ownership — specifically Woody Johnson — being at the center of the storm. The buzz is that Johnson's micromanaging tendencies, particularly his inclination to lean on public opinion from social media and non-football voices, have created a chaotic work environment.
From TNF Tonight—On the environment in the @NYJets building, and how ownership affects it. pic.twitter.com/onvhJH0iM8
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) October 31, 2024
Johnson's eagerness to win is evident, as shown by his backing of the Aaron Rodgers acquisition, but it seems his impatience is undermining his football operations staff. There's a feeling in the building that Johnson isn't giving the necessary autonomy to those hired to make critical decisions, which has only added to the instability. For a franchise desperate to escape a reputation of dysfunction, these reports won't do them any favors.
Another wrinkle? The outcome of the recent U.S. presidential election could impact Johnson's role with the Jets. Should political responsibilities call Johnson elsewhere, there's speculation it could pave the way for a more stable and appealing environment for potential candidates to run the football side of the operation.
Bottom line: This overhaul isn't just about finding the next coach or GM—it's about a culture reset. Until the Jets establish a foundation of trust and autonomy in their leadership structure, their long road back to relevancy will remain just that — long.
@NYJets
