The NFL Players Association executive committee expressed its support for executive director Lloyd Howell in a letter sent to the full player membership on Sunday, July 13.
In a memo obtained by USA TODAY Sports, the NFLPA’s Executive Committee denied asking Howell to step down and called out attempts to divide the association’s members.
‘As members of the NFLPA Executive Committee, we categorically reject false reports insinuating doubts within this committee or suggestions that we have asked our Executive Director to step down,’ the executive committee said. ‘We further reject attempts to mischaracterize the committee’s views or divide our membership.
‘We have established a deliberate process to carefully assess the issues that have been raised and will not engage in a rush to judgment. We believe in and remain committed to working with our Executive Director and other members of NFLPA staff and player leadership who have a shared mission to advance the best interests of players. As we approach the 2025 season, we look forward to continuing our important work together and ensuring the strength and unity of our association.’
The NFLPA’s Executive Committee includes:
Jalen Reeves-Maybin, President
Oren Burks, Vice President
Calais Campbell, Vice President
Austin Ekeler, Vice President
Cameron Heyward, Vice President
Ted Karras, Vice President
Case Keenum, Vice President
Ryan Kelly, Vice President
Brandon McManus, Vice President
Thomas Morstead, Vice President
Thomas Hennessy, Treasurer
The memo comes just days after the Washington Post reported on July 11 − citing an unnamed source − that Howell has no intention of stepping away from his role after news surfaced of a potential conflict of interest.
Howell, who was elected to the leadership role in June 2023, has been a paid, part-time consultant for private-equity firm The Carlyle Group since March 2023, as reported by ESPN. They are a group that could seek to invest in NFL franchises after being approved by the league.
Much of this has come to light after it was revealed the NFLPA agreed to keep the arbitration decision from earlier this year about potential collusion by the league confidential – despite evidence that ‘commissioner Roger Goodell and former general counsel Jeff Pash instructed teams at the March 2022 league meeting to limit guaranteed money in players’ contracts.’
The NFLPA is now appealing the decision.
At some point, they may be looking for new leadership. Based on July 13’s memo, however, it appears Howell’s position is secure for the immediate future.