NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell steps down amid conflict of interest, collusion controversies
NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell has announced that he is stepping down from his role. In recent weeks, Howell has been at the center of controversy, including for his work as a paid consultant for a private equity firm approved to invest in the NFL.
In a statement released on Thursday night, Howell said his priority was always to fight for the health and well-being of the players' union. Howell went on to note that his presence has become a "distraction" and ultimately prompted his decision to step away.
"Two years ago, I accepted the role of Executive Director of the NFLPA because I believe deeply in the mission of this union and the power of collective action to drive positive change for the players of America's most popular sport," Howell said. "Our members deserve a union that will fight relentlessly for their health, safety, financial futures and long-term well-being. My priority has been to lead that fight by serving this union with focus and dedication.
"It's clear that my leadership has become a distraction to the important work the NFLPA advances every day. For this reason, I have informed the NFLPA Executive Committee that I am stepping down as Executive Director of the NFLPA and Chairman of the Board of NFL Players effective immediately. I hope this will allow the NFLPA to maintain its focus on its player members ahead of the upcoming season.
"I am proud of what we have been able to accomplish at the NFLPA over the past two years. I will be rooting for the players from the sidelines as loud as ever, and I know the NFLPA will continue to ensure that players remain firmly at the center of football's future."
After news broke that Howell was a paid consultant for The Carlyle Group, a private equity firm that had been approved the own part of an NFL team, the NFLPA initially shared a statement in support of Howell.
Less than a week before that, the NFLPA announced an appeal of an arbitration ruling claiming that the NFLPA struck a confidentiality agreement with the NFL and colluded to conceal salary details from players.
This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
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