New York Jets Franchise Value
The New York Jets, founded in 1959 as the “Titans of New York”, have a long history filled with financial success and several ownership transitions.The New York Jets franchise value is amongst the highest despite their singular championship victory in the 1968 AFL-NFL championship game, now known as Super Bowl III, with Joe Namath.
New York Jets Team Value : $3.5 Billion
- Owners: Johnson Family
- Championships: 1
- Year Purchased: 2000
- Price Paid: $635 Million
- Revenue: $560 Million
- Operating Income: $126 Million
- Player Expenses: $286 Million
- Gate Receipts: $79 Million
- Revenue Per Fan: $20
MORE: VIEW THE FUL LIST OF NFL TEAM VALUATIONS
Brief History of Franchise Ownership
Harry Wismer was the founding owner of the New York Jets, then known as the New York Titans. Wismer was a charter owner in the AFL and was one of two owners with experience in sports team ownership and in broadcasting. He had previously been a part owner of the Detroit Lions (alongside Buffalo’s Ralph Wilson) and the Washington Redskins.
The Jets faced ownership troubles in 1962 when original owner Harry Wismer ran out of money and couldn’t pay players. The AFL had to cover costs to finish the season.
There was discussion about moving or dissolving the New York team, but the market was too important. In March 1963, a five-man group led by David A. “Sonny” Werblin and Leon Hess bought the franchise for $1 million.
Werblin renamed the team the “Jets” to connect to the “Space Age” and the team’s new home Shea Stadium near airports. The colors changed from navy and gold to green and white.
In April 1963, the new owners hired Weeb Ewbank as general manager and head coach after his success with the Baltimore Colts. Walt Michaels and Chuck Knox joined Ewbank’s first Jets coaching staff.
Johnson Family Acquisition
In 2000, Robert Wood “Woody” Johnson IV, a member of the Johnson & Johnson family, purchased the Jets for $635 million. Johnson’s acquisition marked a new era for the franchise, as he established a commitment to a culture of success built on passionate players, supportive fans, and a state-of-the-art stadium.
Robert Wood Johnson founded health products giant Johnson & Johnson in 1886. His son, Robert Wood Johnson II, took over the family business in 1932, turning it into a global brand. The wealth was passed down to heirs like Woody Johnson, who had $1.7 billion in assets outside the Jets as of 2017.
How Much are the NY Jets Worth?
The Jets’ are currently valued at $6.1 billion, according to Forbes. This figure places them among the most valuable franchises in the NFL. The Jets generated revenue of $560 million, operating income of $126 million, and had player expenses of $286 million with a favorable debt-to-value ratio of 9%.
MetLife Stadium: A State-of-the-Art Venue
Under Johnson’s ownership, the Jets moved into MetLife Stadium in 2010. This award-winning, $1.4 billion venue has been ranked as the highest-grossing stadium in the world. With a seating capacity of 82,500 and an average ticket price of $98, MetLife Stadium has contributed significantly to the Jets’ revenue streams thanks to its prime location just outside New York City.
The Jets’ Financial Outlook
Beyond financials, the Jets have a rich history with playoff appearances and their 1968 championship triumph. From the 1980s through the 2000s, they made multiple playoff runs. With strong leadership, a premier stadium, and commitment to success, the Jets are a financial force in the NFL poised for future growth.
