Former Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum wants Christopher Johnson to step up and take charge following allegations of racism, sexism and corruption against his brother.
On Wednesday, CNN reported that Woody Johnson allegedly asked why African Americans would want a Black History Month, resited an event in which he asked if the crowd would be comprised of “a whole bunch of black people,” and referred to Black fathers leaving their families as the “real challenge” while working as United States ambassador to the United Kingdom. He also allegedly objectified, excluded and belittled women and women’s related events on multiple occasions and attempted to use his position to benefit President Donald Trump’s personal finances.
The Jets released a statement in response to the allegations shortly after they surfaced, but Christopher’s name was not attached. He has yet to comment on his brother’s alleged racist and sexist remarks. Tannenbaum believes it is pertinent that he does as soon as possible.
“He needs to take control of the situation,” Tannenbaum said on ESPN’s Get Up. “He is the acting owner of the Jets right now. He needs to get in front of the organization today on a virtual Zoom call and say ‘I am the owner. If you have any concerns, come talk to me. I’m troubled by these allegations, there needs to be an investigation, but I am here to support you. I am the acting owner of this team, come talk to me.'”
Tannenbaum worked for the Jets from 1997-2013. He spent the final seven years of his tenure with the organization working as general manager under Woody Johnson, placing him in direct correspondence with the 73-year-old on a regular basis.
“This is a very big opportunity for Chris Johnson, who is a very good person,” Tannebaum said. “I got to know him a little bit, but not nearly as well as I got to know Woody Johnson. This is an opportunity for Chris Johnson to show he is in control and he is the owner. He has the ability to do it.
“With that said, an investigation can go on simultaneously, that the league should handle. This way, Chris Johnson can support Adam Gase, he can support Joe Douglas and most importantly those players, so they can be focused on the 2020 season, which we all know is going to be as challenging as it’s ever been in our history. It’s really an opportunity for Chris Johnson to step up and take control today.”
The allegations surrounding Woody Johnson surfaced in the midst of the NFL reckoning with its handling of racial and social injustice and sexual harassment against women. Since George Floyd’s killing at the hands of Minneapolis police officer Derrick Chauvin, the league has announced donations to combat systemic racism, among other initiatives. The Washington football team and its owner, Daniel Snyder, have also come under fire for allegations of sexual harassment from 15 women.