Lloyd Howell, the executive director of the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA), is facing growing unrest among some players and their agents due to increasing scrutiny over several issues. A federal investigation into a licensing company co-founded by Howell is adding fuel to the tensions.
Several people familiar with the situation report that concerns include the union’s handling of an arbitrator’s ruling in a collusion case, which has raised questions about the NFLPA’s ability to effectively represent its members. Additionally, there are concerns over a possible conflict of interest stemming from Howell’s ongoing consulting role with a firm approved to make private-equity investments in NFL franchises.
These developments have led to increased pressure on Howell and the NFLPA to address the issues at hand. The union must navigate these challenges while maintaining the trust and confidence of its members, who are essential to its success.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/07/11/lloyd-howell-nflpa-unrest