Lloyd Howell Jr.'s Dual Roles Raise Eyebrows

Lloyd Howell Jr., the head of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), is under the microscope for his dual role as a consultant for The Carlyle Group—a private equity firm approved to invest in NFL franchises. This arrangement has sparked concerns about conflicts of interest, given his responsibilities as the players' chief advocate.

A Controversial Appointment

Howell began consulting for Carlyle in March 2023, just months before stepping into his official role with the NFLPA. The firm is actively seeking to acquire minor ownership stakes in NFL teams, limited to 10%. This connection raised alarms when a senior union attorney advised Howell to consider resigning from Carlyle to avoid any perception of impropriety.

Howell's Reluctance to Step Down

Despite the counsel, Howell chose to maintain his position at Carlyle. Sources revealed that he is committed to conducting due diligence on the matter, even as many question the appropriateness of his decision.

The NFLPA's Reaction and Ongoing Investigations

Critics have expressed disbelief at Howell's ability to juggle these roles, especially considering his substantial $3.4 million salary from the NFLPA. Former NFLPA lawyer Jim Quinn pointed out that traditional leaders of the union—like Gene Upshaw and DeMaurice Smith—never held outside jobs while representing the players. He argued that Howell should have resigned immediately after being appointed.

Beneath the Surface: Confidentiality Agreements and Investigations

Howell has found himself embroiled in a web of scrutiny, particularly regarding a confidentiality agreement with the NFL that kept troubling arbitration findings under wraps. The recent arbitration ruling, which involved guaranteed money in player contracts, revealed significant insights into the league's conduct but was not shared with players until a podcast exposed the details.

Ongoing Legal Troubles for the NFLPA

Adding to the controversy, Howell is now part of a special committee investigation led by Ronald C. Machen, amid reports of federal inquiries into the NFLPA's financial dealings with OneTeam Partners—a joint venture co-founded with MLB players. Howell’s connections and long career in consulting, including a controversial chapter with Booz Allen Hamilton, only deepen the questions surrounding him.

A Call for Transparency and Integrity

The spotlight on Howell underscores a critical call for transparency and integrity within the players' association. With increasing scrutiny over his actions and affiliations, the NFLPA faces a crucial moment to reaffirm its commitment to the welfare and trust of its players. As the NFL landscape continues to evolve, the players and fans alike are left wondering: Can Howell effectively represent player interests while tied to financial powerhouses such as Carlyle?