Lloyd Howell Jr., the executive director of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), was sued in 2011 for sexual discrimination and retaliation during his time at Booz Allen, raising questions about whether NFLPA members were aware of this lawsuit before his 2023 election.

The NFLPA's executive committee publicly supported Howell, emphasizing their careful assessment of the issues without rushing to judgment, even as some members questioned the transparency of the vetting process.

Following DeMaurice Smith's departure, the NFLPA conducted a thorough search for a new executive director, hiring the consulting firm Russell Reynolds Associates, which was paid approximately $500,000 for their services.

While some committee members claimed the lawsuit was disclosed and Howell was extensively questioned during the election meeting, others, including player representatives, felt they were not adequately informed about his past.

Howell's leadership has come under further scrutiny amid reports of an FBI investigation into the NFLPA's financial dealings and his consultancy work with a private equity firm involved in NFL team ownership negotiations.

Some player representatives expressed surprise that the lawsuit was not discussed during the candidate selection process in June 2023, suggesting a lack of transparency.

The lawsuit, filed by Margo Fitzpatrick and settled in July 2015 for an undisclosed amount, alleged that Howell and Booz Allen engaged in discriminatory practices against female employees, including sexist remarks and retaliation.

Howell's leadership has faced ongoing scrutiny amid investigations into the NFLPA's financial dealings, adding to the controversy surrounding his tenure.