NFLPA Executive Committee Backs Lloyd Howell Amid Conflict Allegations

The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) executive committee has publicly supported Executive Director Lloyd Howell Jr. amid controversy over his part-time consulting role with The Carlyle Group, a private equity firm seeking minority ownership in NFL franchises. Despite reports suggesting concerns over a conflict of interest and calls for Howell's resignation, the committee rejected any insinuations that they doubted Howell or asked him to step down, emphasizing a deliberate process to assess the issues without rushing to judgment. Howell earned $3.4 million in consulting fees from Carlyle in 2024, raising concerns about the optics of his dual roles, though the firm stated he had no access to confidential NFL ownership information. The union leadership stressed their commitment to unity and advancing player interests as the 2025 NFL season approaches. Media coverage has noted a lack of concrete evidence supporting claims of internal committee dissent or mischaracterization of views, with only limited comments acknowledging a 'dicey' situation within the union. Overall, the NFLPA stands firmly behind Howell while addressing ongoing scrutiny regarding potential conflicts of interest.