Jets owner Woody Johnson accused of corruption, racism, sexism

The NFL, facing another controversy engulfing one of its team owners, declined to specify Wednesday what steps it will take, if any, following reports that New York Jets owner Woody Johnson attempted to use his position as U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom to benefit President Donald Trump’s personal business interests and that Johnson made racist and sexist comments to staff members.

“We are aware of the report and would refer you to the State Department,” the NFL said in a written statement.

Johnson was investigated by the State Department inspector general, according to a report by CNN.

Johnson, 73, was confirmed as ambassador in 2017 and turned over daily operations of the Jets to his brother Christopher. His great-grandfather was the co-founder of the pharmaceutical and medical giant Johnson & Johnson.

CNN reported that Johnson “made racist generalizations about Black men and questioned why the Black community celebrates Black History Month.” He also made what the network described “cringeworthy” remarks about women’s looks.

The New York Times reported that Johnson told multiple colleagues in February 2018 that Trump had asked him to see if the British government could assist in having the British Open golf tournament played at Trump’s Turnberry resort in Scotland. Johnson’s deputy advised against fulfilling Trump’s request, the Times reported, but Johnson “felt pressured to try” and reportedly raised the idea to David Mundell, Scotland’s secretary of state.

The British government said in a statement that Johnson “made no request of Mr. Mundell regarding the British Open or any other sporting event,” the Times reported.