Woody Johnson Criticizes Justin Fields and Supports Aaron Glenn Amid Jets QB Crisis

In a challenging moment for the New York Jets, owner Woody Johnson has expressed his support for head coach Aaron Glenn while questioning quarterback Justin Fields’ performance. The Jets currently hold a 0-7 record, marking their third such start in franchise history. Fields was benched during the first half of a recent 13-6 loss to the Carolina Panthers, and Glenn is yet to decide whether to reinstate him or hand the starting position to Tyrod Taylor in the upcoming game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Woody Johnson’s Perspective on Justin Fields

Johnson’s confidence in Glenn remains intact, but his endorsement of Fields has faltered. He noted, “It’s hard when you have a quarterback with the rating that we’ve got.” Despite Fields’ potential, Johnson pointed out the need for consistent performance at the quarterback position, stating, “If you look at any head coach with a quarterback like that, you are going to see similar results across the league.”

Support for Aaron Glenn

During the league’s fall owners meeting in Midtown, Johnson acknowledged the strengths of the team’s defense and special teams, implying that improvements are possible. He mentioned, “I have more hope for a turnaround than the skeptics,” which highlights his optimism despite the team’s struggles.

Johnson also emphasized that he would refrain from interfering with the coaching staff’s decisions on the quarterback position and expressed his confidence in Glenn’s judgment. “If we could just complete a pass, it would look good,” he remarked, highlighting the team’s struggles with their passing game.

Jets’ Offensive Challenges

• The Jets rank 27th in the league in points per game, averaging only 18.4.
• In the last six games, the offense has recorded just one touchdown in the first three quarters.
• They have failed to score in the first half of those six games.

Johnson mentioned Fields’ misleading 91.1 passer rating, suggesting that the statistic does not reflect the team’s offensive woes. “You can’t run the ball if you can’t pass the ball. That’s Football 101,” he remarked.

Aaron Glenn’s Impact on the Team

Johnson’s long-standing relationship with Glenn, dating back to 1996, informs his trust in the head coach. He praised Glenn’s ability to handle the team effectively, stating, “There’s no B.S. There’s no second agendas. What you are hearing is the truth.” Johnson believes players are responding positively to Glenn’s leadership. “Yes, I think they are,” he added.

Looking Ahead: Trade Deadline and Player Speculation

With the NFL’s trade deadline approaching on November 4, Johnson and general manager Darren Mougey are exploring options to enhance the team, particularly at wide receiver. Johnson stated, “I think we are looking at every option at all times.”

Furthermore, the Jets have three of their four 2022 draft picks secured for the next season. However, running back Breece Hall’s future remains uncertain. Despite averaging 4.5 yards per carry and 87.4 yards from scrimmage per game, he has not yet scored a touchdown and is entering free agency after the season.

Johnson acknowledged Hall’s situation, saying, “I’m not going to speculate on Breece,” but emphasized the significance of re-signing other promising players like Garrett Wilson and Sauce Gardner.