NFL Players Association Faces Leadership Crisis After Lloyd Howell Jr.’s Resignation

Overview of the Crisis

On July 23, 2025, the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) was thrown into turmoil following the abrupt resignation of Lloyd Howell Jr., the union’s executive director. This unexpected departure has left union representatives scrambling to find new leadership amid a backdrop of internal strife and external investigations.

Patrick Mahomes Calls for Unity

During a critical Zoom meeting, Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs’ star quarterback and second alternate player representative, emphasized the importance of selecting the right leader for the NFLPA. "We need to get our choice for leader right," Mahomes stated, reflecting the anxiety and uncertainty felt by many within the union.

The Fallout from Howell’s Tenure

Howell’s resignation came just days after revelations about his consulting work for a private equity firm and a confidentiality agreement with the NFL regarding a collusion arbitration decision. His tenure, which began with promises of transparency, was marred by a series of missteps that ultimately led to his downfall.

Executive Committee’s Reaction

The executive committee was reportedly blindsided by Howell’s resignation. Members had previously expressed strong support for him, only to find themselves grappling with the implications of his actions. "The guys were very disappointed," one source revealed, highlighting the sense of betrayal felt within the ranks.

The Search for New Leadership

In the wake of Howell’s exit, the NFLPA is now tasked with finding an interim executive director. The process that led to Howell’s selection in 2023 is under scrutiny, particularly the decision to keep candidate names confidential, which some believe hindered the selection of qualified leaders.

Criticism of the Selection Process

Former players and union insiders have voiced concerns about the lack of transparency in Howell’s hiring process. Notably, former quarterback Matt Schaub expressed frustration that no ex-players made it to the final selection round, stating, "The fact that not a single player even got to the semifinals… is a slap in the face."

Howell’s Controversial Background

Howell’s background raised red flags during his hiring process, including a whistleblower complaint against his former employer, Booz Allen, and a settled sexual discrimination lawsuit. Despite these issues, the executive committee ultimately chose him, believing his financial expertise would benefit the union.

The Impact of Howell’s Actions

Howell’s leadership style and decisions, including his moonlighting at The Carlyle Group and questionable expense reports, have drawn criticism from union employees. Reports indicate that he often spent little time in the office and failed to communicate effectively with staff, leading to a toxic work environment.

The Path Forward for the NFLPA

As the NFLPA grapples with its leadership vacuum, the union’s commitment to transparency and accountability is under renewed scrutiny. NFLPA President Jalen Reeves-Maybin has assured members that the organization is dedicated to upholding its core values during this challenging time.

A Call for Engagement

Former NFLPA president Domonique Foxworth expressed cautious optimism, stating that the current crisis could galvanize players to become more engaged in union matters. "This obviously was embarrassing, but it got everybody’s attention, and the players are more engaged," he noted.

Conclusion

The NFLPA stands at a crossroads, facing the daunting task of rebuilding trust and leadership after the fallout from Howell’s resignation. As the search for a new executive director begins, the union must prioritize transparency and player engagement to navigate this unprecedented crisis effectively.