Jets Owner Johnson Criticized Amid Fields-Led First Win After 0-7 Start

The New York Jets, entering the 2025 NFL season as the league's only winless team at 0-7, secured their first victory in a dramatic comeback against the Cincinnati Bengals, led by quarterback Justin Fields. Fields, who faced public criticism from Jets owner Woody Johnson for his performance, delivered a strong game with 244 passing yards and a touchdown, earning praise from former NFL great Terry Bradshaw and helping to silence Johnson's doubts. The Jets overcame both on-field struggles and the emotional weight of the recent passing of franchise legend Nick Mangold, with head coach Aaron Glenn celebrating his first NFL win and emphasizing team unity. Despite Fields' resilient performance, the Jets have struggled with their passing game and offensive strategy, drawing criticism from media analysts who point to coaching and play-calling issues. Former NFL quarterback Alex Smith strongly condemned Johnson's public criticism of Fields, highlighting the Jets' long playoff drought and asserting that the problems run deeper than just the quarterback position. This collective response reflects broader concerns about ownership interference, coaching effectiveness, and organizational leadership within the Jets franchise.