Thu Jul 24 06:10:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) is in crisis following the abrupt resignation of Executive Director Lloyd Howell Jr. amid allegations of financial impropriety, conflicts of interest (including consulting for a firm seeking to invest in NFL franchises), and a lack of transparency with union members. Howell’s tenure was plagued by controversy, including revelations of spending union funds on strip club visits and his involvement in a confidentiality agreement with the NFL regarding a collusion grievance. The situation has sparked internal strife, with players expressing fear, frustration, and a demand for a more transparent and accountable leadership selection process. The controversy surrounding Howell also calls into question the NFLPA’s selection process, which has been criticized for a lack of transparency and player involvement. NFL stars like Patrick Mahomes are calling for a renewed focus on the players’ needs and a more engaged union body. The situation is compounded by an ongoing FBI investigation into financial dealings involving OneTeam Partners, a group-licensing firm co-founded by the NFLPA.

**News Article:**

**NFLPA in Turmoil: J.J. Watt Joins McAfee to Discuss NFLPA Issues**

**NEW YORK, NY** – The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) is facing its most significant crisis in its 68-year history, following the dramatic resignation of Executive Director Lloyd Howell Jr. amid a wave of allegations ranging from financial mismanagement to a lack of transparency with its own members. Former NFL star J.J. Watt recently appeared on the McAfee show to discuss the issues facing the NFLPA

Howell’s departure comes after reports surfaced detailing his involvement in a consulting role for a private equity firm seeking to invest in NFL franchises, a confidentiality agreement with the NFL, and the use of union funds for personal expenses, including strip club visits. The revelations have ignited a firestorm of criticism, with sources within the NFLPA describing a climate of fear, frustration, and worry among player representatives.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has emerged as a voice of reason, urging the union to learn from its mistakes and prioritize a transparent and player-focused leadership selection process. Mahomes reportedly addressed the player representatives during a two-hour Zoom call, emphasizing the need to find a leader who understands the current crisis and can navigate the complexities of the NFLPA’s challenges.

The situation has also brought scrutiny to the NFLPA’s leadership selection process, which has been criticized for its lack of transparency and limited involvement of player representatives. Critics argue that the secretive process contributed to the selection of Howell, despite red flags in his background, including a past sexual discrimination lawsuit and allegations of overbilling during his time at Booz Allen Hamilton.

Adding to the turmoil, the FBI is reportedly investigating financial dealings involving OneTeam Partners, a $2 billion group-licensing firm co-founded by the NFLPA.

The NFLPA is now tasked with selecting an interim director and initiating a process to find a permanent replacement for Howell. The search for new leadership is expected to be lengthy and complex as the union grapples with deep divisions and a demand for greater accountability. Several candidates, including George Atallah, Don Davis, Teri Patterson Smith, and David White, are expected to be in consideration.

As the NFLPA navigates this challenging period, the focus remains on restoring trust and ensuring that the union is working in the best interests of its player members. Veteran union lawyers and the 32 player representatives are working to stabilize the organization while the NFL world watches closely to see how the NFLPA will emerge from this crisis.

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