NFLPA Chief Faces Scrutiny Over Outside Role, Secrecy

NFL Players Association executive director Lloyd Howell Jr. is under scrutiny after reports revealed he is a paid, part-time consultant for The Carlyle Group, a private equity firm approved by the NFL to seek minority stakes in franchises. Howell began consulting for Carlyle in March 2023, prior to his NFLPA appointment, and has refused union lawyers' requests to resign from that position, raising concerns about a conflict of interest. The NFLPA has hired outside counsel to review Howell's activities, and controversy has grown over the union keeping details of a collusion ruling with the NFL confidential from players. Federal investigators are also reportedly probing the NFLPA’s financial dealings with OneTeam Partners, with Howell alleged to have suppressed an internal investigation into the matter. Both Howell and Carlyle claim he has had no involvement in NFL-related investment activities. Mounting controversy and speculation have led to questions about Howell’s future as executive director.