Donald Trump – known for his close ties with Woody Johnson, owner of the New York Jets – made a surprising quip about Johnson’s NFL team during an event at the White House.
On Wednesday, while hosting the University of Florida’s championship men’s basketball team, Trump couldn’t resist taking a playful jab at the Jets.
“A very special thanks to the NFL legend [Tim Tebow] and University of Florida – I mean, one of the greatest players I’ve ever seen,” Trump said of ex-Florida quarterback Tim Tebow. “I tell you what, as a college player, maybe the best ever. And you did damn well in the pros too, despite being on the Jets, you did damn well.”
Tebow’s NFL journey began with a bang in 2011 when he led the Denver Broncos to an unexpected playoff victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, after the Broncos acquired Peyton Manning, Tebow’s role diminished, leading to his trade to the Jets, where his professional career quickly unraveled.
During his brief stint in New York, the former first-round pick barely saw action, throwing just eight passes and never taking another snap in the league thereafter.
Johnson has been a significant financial supporter of Trump’s presidential campaigns, contributing generously over the years.
The billionaire was recognized for his service when Trump appointed him as the 66th Ambassador to the United Kingdom in 2016. During his tenure, his brother Chris Johnson took over as Jets’ chairman and CEO from 2017 to 2021.
“We are looking forward to working with the new US ambassador once that is confirmed,” then UK Prime Minister Teresa May said of Johnson’s nomination.”His close personal relationship with the President shows the commitment of the administration to the special relationship between our two countries.”
In fairness to Trump, the Jets aren’t exactly a powerhouse in the title contention circle. They kicked off the 2024 season with high hopes but stumbled to a disappointing 5-12 record.
Aaron Rodgers, the starting quarterback for 2024, wasn’t brought back, with the team instead opting for former Chicago Bears top-10 pick Justin Fields.
Fields will be backed by a beefed-up offensive line and an arsenal that includes talents like wide receiver Garrett Wilson and running back Breece Hall.
The Jets currently hold the dubious distinction of having the longest active playoff drought in the NFL, stretching back to 2010. As New York gears up for the 2025 season, the team ranks as the third-favorite to clinch the AFC East.
