Report: Woody Johnson Makes 'Smart-Ass Lines' About Jets' Decisions During NFL Drafts

The New York Jets have been among the most disappointing teams in the league this season, but the franchise's issues reportedly extend beyond 2024.

Zack Rosenblatt, Dianna Russini and Michael Silver of The Athletic detailed much of the organizational dysfunction under team owner Woody Johnson in a piece published Thursday. One of the stories they relayed chronicled how Johnson undermines the front office during draft day.

"During the annual NFL Draft, Johnson is known to keep to himself while decisions are being made, according to one former executive, then exit the room and retreat to a nearby snack bar with confidants to make 'smart-ass lines' about the front office's decisions," The Athletic reported.

The report highlighted one interaction in particular where Johnson was "especially vocal" in his displeasure with former general manager Mike Maccagnan drafting Penn State quarterback Christian Hackenberg in the second round in 2016.

Johnson may have had a point then, as Hackenberg never played a snap for the Jets and failed to live up to the expectations that were put in place given his draft status.

The report from The Athletic also details times Johnson's family criticized players in the locker room, highlights the lack of confidence within the organization for the owner and his confidants, paints a picture of a troubling work environment, and much more.

Johnson purchased the Jets in 2000, and things started off fairly well.

They made the playoffs six times from 2001-10 and posed as a challenger for the dominant New England Patriots in the AFC East. However, New York hasn't made the postseason since the 2010 campaign and has the eighth-fewest wins in the league (172) since Johnson became the owner.

There also isn't much room for optimism regarding the immediate future, as the team is 4-10 with a 41-year-old quarterback under center and vacancies at head coach and general manager.

The upcoming NFL draft will be an important one as the team looks to turn things around with talented young players, and this report indicates Johnson won't hesitate to express his displeasure if he believes the wrong prospects were chosen.