Woody Johnson Says 'I Have to Be a Better Owner' and Need Patience After Jets Rumors

New York Jets owner Woody Johnson is taking accountability for how things have gone for the organization in recent years under his stewardship.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Johnson admitted "I have to be a better owner" for the Jets to reach the level of success they hope to achieve.

"I'm trying to be better," he said. "And I do self scout, and a lot of people scout for me. … I think I did it today by introducing the two leaders of this team, the second is to — I've got to have patience. I've got to let them evolve in these positions, which I think they will. I think it'll be quick, but I think they'll evolve."

Monday marked a significant date for the franchise because it was the introductory press conference for new general manager Darren Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn.

One of the big decisions that Johnson made two years ago was acquiring Aaron Rodgers in a trade with the Green Bay Packers. Now, Rodgers' future in New York is very much up in the air.

Johnson did note he would not do anything to influence whatever decision Mougey and Glenn make regarding Rodgers.

"They've got to take a look at how the team's composed and what they think they need and put all that together," Johnson said. "No, I'm not going to voice my opinion. That's up to them."

Johnson's tenure as Jets owner, which began in 2000, has left a lot to be desired. They've frequently been in a state of dysfunction on and off the field, resulting in them holding the longest playoff drought of any team in the four major North American men's pro sports leagues.

The best thing an owner of any sports team can do is get out of the way and let the football people make the decisions. You'll still get the glory if your team is successful because almost always the first person to be presented with the Lombardi Trophy at the Super Bowl is the owner.

It will be tough-sledding for the Jets to end their playoff drought in 2025 with the Buffalo Bills likely to still be very good and the New England Patriots presumably improving around Drake Maye with new head coach Mike Vrabel.

If Johnson empowers Mougey and Glenn to do their jobs without fear of someone looking over their shoulders, the Jets could improve on their 5-12 record from this season.