The New York Jets’ dwindled playoff hopes come as a blow to owner Woody Johnson’s expectations for the season. After a series of bold moves, including trading for high-profile wide receiver Davante Adams and replacing head coach Robert Saleh with Jeff Ulbrich, the team instead ended up losing multiple games, including a particularly stinging loss to the Arizona Cardinals, for a 3-7 season record. There is now growing speculation that Johnson may soon depart the team to rejoin a possible Trump administration, which he joined in 2016 as the UK ambassador following Trump’s presidential victory. Johnson has made several appearances on Fox News, stumping for Trump, and has also hosted Trump at NFL games, leading many to believe news about his departure will be announced soon.
The possible departure of Johnson from the team raises questions about what will subsequently happen to the Jets. The team may soon be looking for a new head coach and general manager since current interim head coach, Jeff Ulbrich, has not demonstrated he is prepared for the full-time responsibility. Furthermore, current general manager Joe Douglas has been relatively sidelined in recent important team decisions. It is probable that should these positions become available, there will be interest from potential candidates; however, the Jets’ unattractive performance may dissuade people who might have other options.
Should he depart, Johnson’s role in the immediate future of the Jets will likely affect the team’s ability to attract quality candidates. He would likely be involved in the selection of the next general manager and coach, along with his brother Christopher. The Jets’ next actions could also affect the future of star quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, who has not performed as expected. Some within the team are speculating that he might choose to retire if the season continues on its current trajectory and Rodgers continues his disappointing performance.
The Jets are also looking at significant financial implications if Rodgers retires or is cut from the team. Rodgers’ current $23.5 million cap hit would inflate to a $49 million dead-cap charge if he were to leave. However, this could be divided over two years if he left post-June 1, with $14 million charged in 2025 and $35 million in 2026. Yet, there is some potential for Rodgers to stay on the team, largely dependent on the relationship between the Johnson brothers and Rodgers. According to team sources, Rodgers has a close relationship with Christopher Johnson, potentially influencing his decision to stay.
If Woody Johnson is left in control, some speculate he may want to cut ties with Rodgers given the team’s lackluster performance. Johnson previously labeled the current Jets roster as the most talented in his 25 years as owner, despite their failings. They will likely see major player changes in 2025, with numerous notable players set to become free agents and decisions to be made about key wide receivers.
During his previous stewardship of the team, Christopher Johnson made several questionable decisions, including hiring Adam Gase as head coach in 2019 and firing Mike Maccagnan after the 2019 free agency and draft period. However, sources around the team suggest Christopher learned from these missteps and may extend more autonomy to the new general manager. Conversely, Woody’s continued involvement would likely see more interference. The potential shakeup in the Jets’ management and player roster significantly impacts the team’s future trajectory.
