Lloyd Howell Jr. Steps Down as NFLPA Executive Director: Unpacking the Controversies Behind His Resignation

Lloyd Howell Jr., the executive director of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), has stepped down from his position. He announced his resignation late Thursday, stating that his leadership had become a distraction from the vital work the NFLPA does for its members.

Howell’s exit comes amid several controversies, including his role as a consultant for a private equity firm looking to invest in NFL teams. There were also reports of a secret agreement with the league to conceal the findings of a January arbitration ruling that favored the players.

Recently, ESPN reported a dispute about whether players knew of Howell’s past legal issues when they voted for him in 2023. A lawsuit from 2011 alleged sexual discrimination and retaliation during his time at Booz Allen Hamilton.

Reports indicate that Howell chose to resign voluntarily, and not as a result of pressure from within the NFLPA. The board will soon meet to discuss the next steps for the union.

In his statement, Howell emphasized the importance of focusing on the players’ health, safety, and future: “Our members deserve a union that will fight relentlessly for their well-being.” He believed his departure could help the organization refocus as the new season approaches.

One major issue Howell faced was a confidential agreement related to the findings of an independent arbitrator. That report revealed that the NFLPA had substantial evidence suggesting that NFL officials encouraged team owners to limit contract guarantees to players. Notably, Pablo Torre discussed these findings on his podcast, shedding light on the union’s ongoing struggles for player rights.

Howell’s association with The Carlyle Group has also drawn scrutiny. The firm was among those approved to seek minority ownership stakes in NFL teams. However, The Carlyle Group clarified that Howell had no insider access to NFL-related information, adhering to strict boundaries in place within the company.

As the NFLPA moves forward, the focus will likely remain on ensuring that the rights and interests of players are upheld amidst these leadership changes.

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