NFL Exec Says Woody Johnson 'Is Always Going to be a Problem' for Jets GM Mougey

New York Jets first-year general manager Darren Mougey used last week's trade deadline to stockpile significant draft capital, but some around the NFL reportedly feel that team owner Woody Johnson's influence could be too great to overcome.

The Athletic's Mike Sando spoke to an executive from another team who praised Mougey for acquiring three additional first-round picks in the next two years by trading cornerback Sauce Gardner to the Indianapolis Colts and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams to the Dallas Cowboys. However, the exec expressed caution that Mougey can succeed with Johnson presiding over him.

"You would think the GM has a lot of juice now, but that is hard because the owner is always going to be a problem," the exec said. "That's the fight that he's going to be up against."

After starting the season with a 0-7 record, the Jets surprisingly decided to blow things up by moving two of their top defensive players. They improved to 2-7 with Sunday's 27-20 win over the Cleveland Browns, but it's clear that they're set for another rebuild year.

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Johnson has long been known for being over-involved in team operations, and he stirred up some controversy last month when he disparagingly spoke about quarterback Justin Fields.

Still, Johnson has a strong relationship with first-year head coach Aaron Glenn, so there's a sense that he and Mougey will have the chance to build the team in their vision.

The Jets will be on a short week before returning to action on Thursday Night Football against the New England Patriots, who lead the AFC East with an 8-2 record.