The NFL Players Association leadership is currently in turmoil. Lloyd Howell stepped down as Executive Director following months of mounting criticism, leaving the union scrambling to find direction just as the season approaches. But for Hall of Fame tight end Shannon Sharpe, this mess was predictable from the start.
Why Did Shannon Sharpe Call The NFLPA Situation “Just A Mess”?
While appearing on his “Nightcap” podcast alongside fellow former NFL player Chad Ochocinco, Sharpe didn’t hold back about the chaos surrounding Howell’s departure. The Pro Football Hall of Famer described the entire situation as “just a mess.”
“It was gonna be hard for him because he had a consultation job that used to work for the NFL,” Sharpe said of Howell. “I mean, how do you have a consultation job that worked for the NFL and then….did they not vet this?”
Sharpe’s frustration extended beyond just Howell’s background. The former Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens star pointed to deeper issues plaguing the union.
“Then you hear about the collusion and the lost cases about how they’re telling players about how they need to fake injuries and then go get their money, it’s just a mess right now.”
What Did Lloyd Howell Say About His Resignation?
Howell himself released a lengthy statement detailing his resignation and his decision to step down, while also expressing hope that whoever his ultimate successor is will be able to keep the focus on the players.
“Two years ago, I accepted the role of Executive Director of the NFLPA because I believe deeply in the mission of this union and the power of collective action to drive positive change for the players of America’s most popular sport,” Howell said in a statement issued Thursday night by the NFLPA.
“Our members deserve a union that will fight relentlessly for their health, safety, financial futures, and long-term well-being. My priority has been to lead that fight by serving this union with focus and dedication.”
However, Howell acknowledged that his leadership had become a distraction rather than a solution.
“It’s clear that my leadership has become a distraction to the important work the NFLPA advances every day. For this reason, I have informed the NFLPA Executive Committee that I am stepping down as Executive Director of the NFLPA and Chairman of the Board of NFL Players effective immediately. I hope this will allow the NFLPA to maintain its focus on its player members ahead of the upcoming season.”
Howell had replaced former executive director DeMaurice Smith, who held that role from 2009-2023. Before taking the job, Howell had worked as chief financial officer and treasurer for the consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton.
According to multiple reports, Howell decided to step down on his own and was not pressured to do so.
