NFLPA Faces Federal Probe Over Financial Misconduct

A confidential memo drafted by a senior NFLPA attorney and obtained by ESPN reveals the NFL Players Association is under federal investigation for possible misuse of funds and self-enrichment by union officials. The memo, distributed after the resignations of executive director Lloyd Howell Jr. and chief strategy officer J.C. Tretter, warns of immediate threats, including potential National Labor Relations Board action over unfair labor practices and lapses in fiduciary oversight. It also references an ongoing FBI probe into OneTeam Partners, a group-licensing firm co-founded by the NFLPA, and states the Department of Justice could expand its investigation if the union's response is inadequate. The memo does not specify which individuals may be under criminal investigation but highlights a leadership vacuum and urges swift action to avoid court-supervised oversight. Union officials have declined comment, emphasizing the memo reflects one attorney's view. Despite the leadership crisis, the union assures players it remains operational and focused on their interests.