The New York Jets experienced a significant drop in their overall ranking in the latest NFL Players Association (NFLPA) team report cards, falling to 29th place from 21st in 2023. The report, which evaluates teams based on grades in 11 categories, highlighted several areas of concern, most notably the team's food program and ownership under Woody Johnson. The Jets' players delivered a resounding message by assigning their ownership an F grade, making them the only team in the league to do so.
The NFLPA noted that the Jets' food program, which already received low grades in 2023, had its budget cut further. This decision coincided with the departure of longtime dietitian Nicolette Mense, who has since joined the Kansas City Chiefs. Despite these setbacks, players have expressed approval for the new dietitian.
"Unsurprisingly, when asked what needs the most improvement, players overwhelmingly point to the food program, although they are complimentary of their new dietitian." – NFLPA
Under Johnson's ownership since 2000, the Jets' ownership grade plummeted from a B- to an F, marking the lowest score in the league for contributing to a positive team culture. The NFLPA cited perceived leadership issues at the top, with some players describing these as "top-down problems." Furthermore, Johnson's increased involvement in personnel decisions reportedly caused friction within the organization.
"Rather than addressing concerns, players believed that management responded to feedback by making conditions worse." – NFLPA
The head coach's grade stood at a B, ranking only 25th among peers. The decision to replace Robert Saleh with defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich backfired as the Jets lost nine of their last twelve games, finishing the season with a disappointing 5-12 record. These results reflect the challenges faced by the team under its current leadership structure.
Johnson acknowledged the criticism and has expressed a willingness to improve his role as owner.
"Absolutely, I have to look in the mirror, and I have to be a better owner," – Woody Johnson
The NFLPA's annual report surveyed 1,695 players who graded their respective teams in various categories. The feedback from Jets players was particularly critical of ownership and management's response to issues raised in previous evaluations. This latest report underscores the need for significant changes within the organization.
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