Joe Namath reveals surprising update on relationship with Jets

Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Namath is arguably the most beloved figure in the history of the New York Jets but seemingly has no relationship with individuals associated with the organization. 

"We haven’t talked," Namath said about the Jets during a Monday appearance on the ESPN New York "The Michael Kay Show," per Manuel Gómez of NJ Advance Media for NJ.com. "I haven’t talked to anyone in the organization, except in the administrative part of it. COVID happened and we didn’t travel for two years." 

Namath went viral when he ripped Jets quarterback Zach Wilson after Wilson produced a dud in a 15-10 home loss to the New England Patriots back on Sept. 24. NFL insider Josina Anderson of CBS Sports reported last week that Namath's comments "were more hurtful to some in the [Jets'] building than I think people realize," and both Wilson and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett said ahead of this past Sunday's game against the Kansas City Chiefs they had to do whatever possible to prove Namath wrong. 

Namath somewhat praised Wilson after the 24-year-old played well in the 23-20 loss to the Chiefs. 

"And [Jets chairman Woody Johnson] and I, and [Jets vice chairman Christopher Johnson], we don’t talk on the phone," Namath continued during the segment. "You know, we’re not sociable guys. Whenever we grabbed into the games before that, they were kind enough to have me in the box and have a wonderful time with the children and visit with them. But I haven’t had any contact with any of the ownership or the coaches or whatever. I’m a fan, you gotta buy a ticket to get in." 

Namath added he "normally" won't attend events such as Jets games without an invitation. Considering how he blasted Wilson, head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas in late September, it seems unlikely higher-ups within the Jets would welcome Namath to MetLife Stadium with open arms this fall.