President-elect Donald Trump’s pick of billionaire Warren A. Stephens as U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom left New York Jets fans deflated on Monday.
Trump announced the decision on Truth Social. The Senate must confirm the appointment.
"Warren has always dreamed of serving the United States full time. I am thrilled that he will now have that opportunity as the top Diplomat, representing the U.S.A. to one of America’s most cherished and beloved Allies," Trump said in his post.
Jets fans had been rooting for Woody Johnson, the team’s owner, to get the role. Johnson served as ambassador to the U.K. from 2017 to 2021 during Trump’s first term. During that time, Christopher Johnson, Woody’s brother, handled the team’s operations and personnel decisions.
The Jets haven’t had much success in recent years. Their best record was 7-9 in 2019, and since 2016, they’ve only hit seven wins in a season. They last won 10 games in 2015 and haven’t made the playoffs since 2010.
Frustrated fans voiced their opinions after Trump’s decision. Some held out hope that Johnson might be tapped for a different position.
The Jets’ current season has been a letdown. Despite early optimism with Aaron Rodgers returning to full health, the team sits at 3-9. Midseason, they fired Robert Saleh and Joe Douglas. Even the high-profile addition of Davante Adams hasn’t paid off.
With a few weeks left in the season, the Jets are third in the AFC East. Fans’ playoff dreams seem all but crushed.