Lloyd Howell Jr. Resigns as NFLPA Executive Director Amid Controversy

Lloyd Howell Jr. has officially resigned as the Executive Director of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), effective immediately. Howell, who has led the union since 2023, stated that his leadership had become a distraction from the important work of the organization, which represents nearly 2,000 professional football players. His decision comes in the wake of increasing scrutiny and controversy surrounding his tenure.

In a statement released by the NFLPA, Howell, 59, expressed his hope that his resignation would allow the union to refocus on its mission. "It's clear that my leadership has become a distraction to the important work the NFLPA advances every day," Howell said on July 17, 2025. This announcement caught many members of the NFLPA's executive committee off guard, as just days prior, some members had publicly supported Howell's leadership.

Howell's resignation follows significant issues that have arisen during his time in office, including a federal investigation into the NFLPA's financial dealings, particularly concerning a multibillion-dollar licensing firm, OneTeam Partners. According to reports from ESPN, the FBI, in coordination with the U.S. Attorney's Office in Brooklyn, is probing Howell's activities and the broader financial operations of the NFLPA and MLB Players Association.

Prior to his role at the NFLPA, Howell served as the Chief Financial Officer at Booz Allen Hamilton for nearly 30 years. He was selected as a finalist for the Executive Director position following a lengthy, secretive search process. His appointment was seen as unconventional, given his background in technology consulting rather than in sports management or player advocacy.

In recent weeks, Howell faced allegations of potential conflicts of interest. Reports indicated that he was working as a paid, part-time consultant for the Carlyle Group, a private equity firm that is actively seeking ownership stakes in NFL teams. This relationship raised concerns among some NFLPA members, leading to internal discussions about his future. The NFLPA hired Ronald C. Machen from the law firm Wilmer Hale to review Howell’s actions amid the ongoing investigations.

Moreover, Howell had entered a confidentiality agreement with the NFL that concealed details from a January arbitration decision affecting player compensation. This agreement drew criticism, especially after the arbitration ruling revealed that league executives had encouraged team owners to limit guaranteed player salaries.

As the NFLPA transitions following Howell's departure, the executive committee is expected to convene to discuss the next steps, which may include appointing an interim executive director. The union has emphasized the importance of maintaining transparency and communication with its membership during this period of change.

Howell succeeded DeMaurice Smith, who had led the NFLPA from 2009 until 2023. Smith’s leadership was marked by significant advancements in player rights and benefits, making Howell's sudden exit a pivotal moment for the organization. The NFLPA now faces the challenge of navigating this leadership change while upholding the interests of its members as the upcoming season approaches.

The implications of Howell's resignation extend beyond the NFLPA. It highlights ongoing tensions within professional sports governance regarding player representation and financial transparency. With federal investigations looming and player dissatisfaction on the rise, the NFLPA's next leadership decisions will be crucial for its future and for the welfare of its members.