New York Jets Legend Nick Mangold Criticizes Officials Over Viral Drone Sightings in New Jersey
New York Jets legend Nick Mangold is speaking out about the recent drone sightings in New Jersey, expressing frustration with the lack of answers from officials. On Thursday, Mangold took to social media to criticize New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, saying that “so far (Murphy) has done nothing about the drones. Just a bunch of empty phrases.”
White House national security communications adviser John Kirby addressed the situation in a press briefing on Thursday, stating that there is “no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or a public safety threat, or have a foreign nexus.” Kirby also noted that many of the reported sightings are actually manned aircraft being operated lawfully.
However, Mangold was not satisfied with Kirby’s response and expressed his displeasure on social media. “After seeing these with my own eyes and getting lied to straight to our faces, makes you wonder what else they lie about with such ease. How are we just letting this happen?!” he posted.
Mangold, a seven-time Pro Bowler and one of the best players in Jets’ franchise history, also shared his own experiences with the drone sightings. “There are quite large drones flying in the skies of NJ and we are being told by our government that we aren’t actually seeing anything,” he wrote. “Those of us who have lived here long enough know of normal air traffic and this isn’t normal. After experiencing one fly directly over my head, I am now on the case. I do not like being lied to.”
The drone sightings have been recorded since mid-November, causing alarm for residents of the Garden State. Mangold, who is currently the offensive line coach for Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey, is urging officials to take action and provide more transparency on the situation.