Woody Johnson, the co-owner of the New York Jets and an heir to the Johnson & Johnson fortune, is a prominent figure in both the business and sports worlds. Recently, he made headlines for his decision to fire the New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh following a disappointing start to the 2024 NFL season. As of October 2024, Johnson’s net worth is estimated to be a staggering $3.41 billion.
His influence stretches beyond football, with his family history tied to the global pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson, and his past role as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom. Yet, it’s his position as the owner of the New York Jets that has kept him in the public eye, especially with the team’s ups and downs over the years.
Key Takeaways
- Woody Johnson’s net worth in October 2024 is estimated at $3.41 billion.
- Johnson is the co-owner of the New York Jets and a great-grandson of Robert Wood Johnson I, co-founder of Johnson & Johnson.
- He made news recently by firing Jets head coach Robert Saleh after a challenging start to the season.
- Johnson purchased the New York Jets in 2000 for $635 million, making history at the time for the highest price paid for a New York sports team.
- While linked to various political and business roles, Johnson’s main public presence remains his ownership of the Jets and his deep family ties to Johnson & Johnson.
Who is Woody Johnson?
Woody Johnson, born Robert Wood Johnson IV, is an American businessman, philanthropist, and sports team owner. He is best known as the co-owner of the New York Jets, a role he has held since 2000 when he purchased the team for $635 million. The Jets, under his ownership, have seen their share of highs and lows, from playoff runs to coaching changes like the recent firing of Robert Saleh.
Though his wealth comes from being an heir to the Johnson & Johnson fortune, Woody Johnson’s influence extends far beyond the pharmaceutical company. He has played an active role in sports management, serving on the NFL’s search committee for a new commissioner, and even taking on political duties as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom during the Trump administration.
Woody Johnson’s Role as Jets Owner
Woody Johnson’s acquisition of the New York Jets in 2000 marked a turning point for the team. His hands-on approach in team operations has been both praised and criticized. The 2024 NFL season, starting off with a 2-3 record, led Johnson to make the tough decision to fire head coach Robert Saleh. Such moves show his determination to lead the Jets back to success, even when it requires making hard choices.
Beyond team decisions, Johnson has been heavily involved in league-wide NFL matters, helping shape the sport through his influence and leadership. His role as a sports team owner has cemented his reputation in the world of professional football.
Woody Johnson’s Net Worth and His Johnson & Johnson Legacy
As of October 2024, Woody Johnson’s net worth stands at approximately $3.41 billion. A large portion of his fortune comes from his family’s stake in Johnson & Johnson, one of the largest and most successful pharmaceutical companies in the world. However, Johnson has maintained his distance from the day-to-day operations of the company, working there only briefly for a summer.
His financial success comes not only from inheritance but also from his strategic investments, including his purchase of the New York Jets, a venture that has grown in value over the years.
| Woody Johnson’s Financial Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth (October 2024) | $3.41 billion |
| Ownership | New York Jets |
| Johnson & Johnson Legacy | Heir, minimal direct involvement |
Woody Johnson’s Family and Personal Life
Woody Johnson has been married twice. His current wife, Suzanne Ircha, whom he married in 2009, is a former equities managing director. Together, they have two children. Johnson’s first marriage, to Nancy Sale, lasted from 1977 to 2001, and they had three children together.
Family is an essential part of Johnson’s life, and his connection to the Johnson family legacy continues to play a significant role in his public image. However, despite being part of one of the wealthiest families in America, Johnson has carved his own path in both sports and politics.
Woody Johnson’s Involvement in the NFL
Aside from being the owner of the New York Jets, Woody Johnson has had a notable presence in the National Football League. He served as a member of the NFL’s search committee when the league was looking for a new commissioner. His involvement in the decision-making processes within the NFL speaks to his influence in the sport beyond his team ownership.
The 2024 NFL season has been particularly challenging for Johnson, with the Jets starting 2-3, leading him to fire head coach Robert Saleh. This action shows his commitment to seeing the Jets succeed, even if it means making difficult decisions for the future of the team.
FAQs
Who is Woody Johnson?
Woody Johnson, born Robert Wood Johnson IV, is a businessman, philanthropist, and co-owner of the New York Jets. He is also an heir to the Johnson & Johnson pharmaceutical fortune and has served as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom.
What is Woody Johnson’s net worth in 2024?
As of October 2024, Woody Johnson’s net worth is estimated to be around $3.41 billion.
What role does Woody Johnson play in the NFL?
Woody Johnson is the co-owner of the New York Jets and has been involved in the NFL’s operations, including serving on the search committee for a new commissioner.
What is Woody Johnson’s connection to Johnson & Johnson?
Woody Johnson is the great-grandson of Robert Wood Johnson I, one of the co-founders of Johnson & Johnson. Despite his family ties, he has had minimal direct involvement in the company.
Why did Woody Johnson fire Jets head coach Robert Saleh in 2024?
Johnson fired Robert Saleh after the New York Jets started the 2024 season with a 2-3 record, showing his commitment to improving the team’s performance.
Who is Woody Johnson’s wife?
Woody Johnson is married to Suzanne Ircha, a former equities managing director, since 2009. He was previously married to Nancy Sale from 1977 to 2001.