NFLPA Executive Committee Denies Calls for Lloyd Howell Resignation Amid Conflict Allegations

The NFL Players Association's executive committee has firmly denied reports that executive director Lloyd Howell was asked to step down amid scrutiny over his part-time consulting role with the Carlyle Group, a private equity firm approved to seek minority ownership in NFL franchises. The committee condemned attempts to create division within the union and emphasized a deliberate process to assess the raised concerns without rushing to judgment. This controversy follows revelations that the NFLPA and the league had a confidentiality agreement to withhold an arbitrator's ruling about potential collusion by owners to restrict guaranteed money in quarterback contracts. Arbitrator Christopher Droney found insufficient evidence of collusion on salaries but concluded that Commissioner Roger Goodell and league counsel had encouraged owners to limit guaranteed money, a ruling the union plans to appeal. Howell, elected in June 2023, has maintained his consulting role despite criticism, with the executive committee reaffirming its commitment to working with him and ensuring the strength and unity of the association as the 2025 season approaches. The union continues to focus on advancing players' best interests amid the ongoing tensions.