Woody Johnson

Robert Wood Johnson IV, known as Woody Johnson, acquired the New York Jets in 2000 for $635 million. As a great-grandson of one of the founders of Johnson & Johnson, he has balanced a career as an entrepreneur and private investment executive with prominent roles in professional sports ownership and international diplomacy.

Early Background and Education

Born in 1947 in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Johnson is the son of Betty and Robert Wood Johnson III. He grew up with four siblings in northern New Jersey. His formal education included attendance at the Millbrook School and the Dwight School before he graduated from the University of Arizona. He briefly held a position at Johnson & Johnson for a single summer early in his professional life.

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Professional Ventures and Financial Conduct

Johnson served as chairman and chief executive of The Johnson Company, Inc., his private investment firm. In 2006, he became the subject of a 370-page Senate subcommittee report concerning the purchase of capital gain losses to offset income tax liabilities. He eventually settled this matter with the IRS, agreeing to pay the outstanding taxes along with accrued interest.

New York Jets Ownership

Upon purchasing the Jets from the estate of Leon Hess, Johnson oversaw the team's transition to MetLife Stadium, which opened in 2010. During his tenure, he has been responsible for major personnel decisions, including the 2023 trade for quarterback Aaron Rodgers and coaching changes involving Robert Saleh, Aaron Glenn, and Darren Mougey. The New York Jets Foundation, established under his leadership, supports programs ranging from youth sports to medical research.

Diplomatic Service and International Sports

Between 2017 and 2021, Johnson served as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom during the first term of President Donald Trump. Following his diplomatic service, he remained active in overseas interests. In 2022, he participated in the bidding process for the purchase of Chelsea. In July 2025, he expanded his sports portfolio by completing the acquisition of a 43% stake in Crystal Palace.