Jets CEO expresses confidence in Gase, Darnold

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Despite a losing record and profound struggles on offense, New York Jets CEO Christopher Johnson gave his full support to coach Adam Gase, calling him a “brilliant offensive mind.”

Speaking to reporters for the first time in 10 months, Johnson declined to issue a playoff mandate, saying Gase will be evaluated on whether the team progresses throughout the season.

“I have full confidence in Adam,” Johnson said Wednesday. “I think that he has a lot more in him as a head coach than some of our fans are giving him credit for. And I understand they want to see success. I think that they will.”

The Jets are 7-10 under Gase, who has presided over the league’s lowest-ranked offense over that span. They lost the opener to the Buffalo Bills, 27-17, which Johnson called “a mess.”

Asked why he’s so confident in Gase, Johnson said: “Look, I think he can work with and develop quarterbacks. I do continue to think he’s a brilliant offensive mind especially. He has my every confidence.”

Coach Adam Gase and quarterback Sam Darnold received support from CEO Christopher Johnson on Wednesday despite the team’s rocky performance in Week 1. AP Photo/John Munson

Gase’s project,