Leadership Shakeup at NFLPA: Lloyd Howell Steps Down Amid Controversy
In a surprising turn of events, Lloyd Howell resigned from his position as the executive director of the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) on Thursday evening, amid mounting controversies that have cast a shadow over the union’s leadership. The resignation comes at a time when internal and external pressures threaten to undermine the union’s unity and focus.
Official Statement and Immediate Impact
In a formal statement released by the NFLPA, Howell acknowledged that his leadership had become a distraction from the union’s core mission. “It’s evident that my role has diverted attention from the vital work the NFLPA is committed to,” Howell expressed. “Therefore, I have informed the union’s Executive Committee of my decision to resign as both the Executive Director and Chairman of the Board of NFL Players, effective immediately. My hope is that this move will enable the NFLPA to concentrate fully on representing its members ahead of the upcoming football season.”
Underlying Issues Prompting Resignation
The decision to step down was driven by several unresolved issues, including a federal investigation into a licensing company co-founded by the NFLPA, the union’s handling of an arbitrator’s decision in a high-profile collusion case, and potential conflicts of interest related to Howell’s consulting activities. Specifically, Howell’s ongoing advisory role with a private equity firm approved to invest in NFL franchises raised questions about impartiality and governance.
Reflections on Leadership and Union Goals
Reflecting on his tenure, Howell, a former CFO at consulting giant Booz Allen Hamilton, expressed his dedication to the union’s mission. “Two years ago, I accepted the role of NFLPA Executive Director because I believe in the power of collective action to bring about meaningful change for our players,” he stated. “Our members deserve a union that fiercely advocates for their health, safety, financial security, and long-term well-being. My focus has always been to lead that fight with unwavering commitment.”
Election and Support from Player Representatives
Howell was elected in June 2023 by players to succeed DeMaurice Smith, promising to uphold the union’s interests. “I am proud of what we’ve achieved over the past two years,” Howell added. “I will continue to support our players from the sidelines, confident that the NFLPA will keep players at the heart of football’s future.”
Following his resignation, members of the NFLPA’s executive committee publicly voiced their backing. In a message sent to players on Sunday, they emphasized a careful review process and reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively. “We are conducting a thorough assessment of the issues raised and will avoid rushing to judgment,” the statement read. “Our goal remains to serve the best interests of our players through dedicated leadership and transparent communication.”
Legal and Investigative Developments
To scrutinize Howell’s tenure, the union enlisted Ronald C. Machen, a former U.S. attorney and partner at WilmerHale, to review his work as executive director. While Howell could have been removed through a two-thirds vote by player representatives, concerns about his confidence among players and agents prompted this review. A forthcoming meeting of player representatives is expected to determine the union’s next steps and select a new leader.
Potential Candidates and Future Leadership
Among those considered for interim leadership are veteran NFLPA executives Don Davis and Tom DePaso, the latter preparing for retirement as general counsel. The union has not publicly disclosed the duration of Howell’s contract, which, under NFLPA rules, could have been negotiated for a term of three to five years at the time of his appointment.
Player Advocacy and Public Sentiment
On social media, agent Blake Baratz urged players to stay vigilant, emphasizing the importance of leadership and transparency. “This is your career and livelihood,” he wrote. “You deserve a union that truly represents your interests. The current situation highlights the need for reform and accountability within the NFLPA.”
Legal Challenges and Arbitration Cases
Recent legal proceedings have further complicated the union’s landscape. In January, arbitrator Christopher F. Droney dismissed a 2022 case brought by the NFLPA alleging collusion to limit guaranteed contracts, ruling that the league’s management council encouraged teams to reduce guaranteed money despite findings that the NFL management was involved in such practices. The NFLPA plans to appeal this decision.
Conflict of Interest Concerns
Howell’s role as a part-time consultant for the Carlyle Group, a global investment firm, raised questions about potential conflicts of interest. Carlyle’s recent approval by the NFL to make private equity investments in franchises-though it does not hold ownership stakes-added to the controversy. The union was aware of Howell’s affiliation when he was elected, but the implications of this relationship are now under scrutiny.
Federal Investigations and Union Relationships
The federal probe focuses on whether union leaders improperly benefited from a partnership with OneTeam, a licensing company co-founded by the Major League Baseball Players Association and the NFLPA in 2019. This company manages large-scale licensing deals on behalf of players. The NFLPA hired international law firm Linklaters in December to review its dealings with OneTeam, though no official findings have been released. Howell had informed the company’s board in April that the review confirmed compliance.
Recent Arbitration Rulings and Union Conduct
In February, arbitrator Sidney Moreland ruled in favor of the NFL in a grievance against the NFLPA, which accused the union of advising players to exaggerate injuries during contract negotiations. The ruling prohibited the union and its representatives from engaging in such conduct in the future. The case centered around public comments made by JC Tretter, a former NFLPA president now serving as a union executive, which the arbitrator deemed inappropriate under the collective bargaining agreement.
Implications for Future Negotiations
Looking ahead, discussions about expanding the regular season to 18 games have been ongoing. Howell had previously indicated informal talks with the NFL about this possibility, but formal negotiations are not expected to commence until next year. The recent leadership upheaval may influence the timing and scope of these negotiations, potentially altering the league’s plans.
As the NFLPA navigates this turbulent period, the focus remains on restoring trust, ensuring transparent leadership, and advocating effectively for players’ rights and interests in the evolving landscape of professional football.