Ex-NFLPA Exec Howell Resigns Amid Conflict of Interest Concerns

Dual Role at Carlyle Group and Union Prompts Departure

A significant fallout from a potential conflict of interest has led to the resignation of former NFL Players Association executive director **Lloyd Howell** from his consulting role with The Carlyle Group.

Carlyle Group Confirms Departure

A spokesperson for The Carlyle Group has confirmed **Howell’s** resignation. The exact timing and reasons for his departure remain undisclosed, according to reports.

BREAKING: Lloyd Howell, the former NFL Players Association executive director who was consulting for The Carlyle Group, has resigned from the private equity firm, a Carlyle spokesman told ESPN.

— Don Van Natta Jr. (@DVNJr) July 10, 2024

The situation reportedly came to light on July 10, when initial reports detailed **Howell’s** dual positions. Concerns about an obvious conflict of interest were raised by at least one internal union lawyer.

Questions Swirl Around Timing of Resignation

It is widely speculated that **Howell’s** exit is directly linked to recent revelations, including reports concerning his alleged misuse of expense accounts. Many believe his departure was long overdue.

Common sense dictates that **Howell** should not have maintained both roles. The moment The Carlyle Group sought and received approval to acquire minority stakes in NFL teams, his continued involvement with the NFLPA became untenable.

This situation mirrors broader discussions in sports governance regarding transparency and ethical conduct. For instance, in 2023, the PGA Tour implemented stricter disclosure rules for its officials to prevent potential conflicts of interest as the landscape of professional golf evolved (PGA Tour 2023).

A Necessary Step

Instead of stepping down earlier, **Howell** reportedly stood firm when the conflict surfaced. His eventual resignation marks a necessary, albeit delayed, resolution to the ethical quandary.