Federal Investigation Probes NFLPA Financial Misconduct, Possible Criminal Actions

Federal investigators are probing the NFL Players Association for potential criminal actions involving misuse of funds and self-enrichment by union officials, according to a confidential memo titled "Crisis Management" obtained by ESPN. The document, shared with the NFLPA's executive committee and player representatives, warns of "immediate threats requiring prompt actions," including possible National Labor Relations Board actions over unfair labor practices and lapses in fiduciary oversight during the tenure of former executive director Lloyd Howell Jr. Howell resigned recently amid scrutiny over conflicts of interest, including his paid consulting role with The Carlyle Group, and allegations that union funds were used for inappropriate expenses such as trips to strip clubs. The FBI's investigation also involves financial dealings related to OneTeam Partners, a licensing group co-founded by the NFLPA and MLB Players Association, where Howell held a board seat. While the memo does not specify which individuals may be under criminal investigation, it highlights a leadership vacuum and urges the union to act decisively to avoid court-supervised oversight. Former director of strategy J.C. Tretter, who also resigned, denies any wrongdoing and states his resignation was due to the escalating situation rather than the accusations.