The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has denied reports that it asked executive director Lloyd Howell Jr. to resign, saying they have “categorically rejected false reports” and “reject attempts to mischaracterize the committee’s views or divide our membership.”
In a statement released Sunday, the NFLPA Executive Committee expressed support for Howell and acknowledged that he is working as a paid consultant for the Carlyle Group, one of several private equity firms seeking minority ownership in NFL franchises. However, a source told ESPN that the union lawyer asked Howell to consider resigning due to potential conflicts of interest.
The NFLPA also faced criticism for hiding details of a January arbitration decision from players, which found that league executives urged team owners to reduce guaranteed player compensation. The association has since decided to appeal the ruling, citing its obligation to enforce the collective bargaining agreement and protect players’ interests.
Howell was elected as the NFLPA’s executive director in 2023 and has been at the center of several controversies, including a hiring scandal involving a former NFL quarterback’s agent. Despite this, the union’s leadership remains committed to working with Howell to advance player interests.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45733132/nflpa-leadership-backs-director-lloyd-howell-jr-amid-reports