For the second time in two years, the union will dive into another election process while simultaneously sorting out what went so wrong with the last one.

Howell resigned from his post late Thursday amid rising criticisms at the NFLPA and concerns about Howell's potential conflicts of interest.

NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell has announced that he is stepping down from his role. In recent weeks, Howell has been at the center of controversy, including for his work as a paid consultant for a private equity firm approved to invest in the NFL.