JC Tretter Resigns from NFLPA Amid Controversy

The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) is facing yet another significant upheaval with the resignation of JC Tretter, the union’s Chief Strategy Officer. This departure marks a new chapter in a saga riddled with turmoil following the resignation of executive director Lloyd Howell Jr. just days prior.

Details Surrounding Tretter’s Resignation

In an interview with CBS Sports, Tretter disclosed, “Over the last couple of days, it has gotten very, very hard for my family. And that’s something I can’t deal with.” He made it clear that he is not interested in pursuing the role of interim executive director, stating, “I’ve let the executive committee know that. I’m also going to leave the NFLPA in the coming days because I don’t have anything left to give the organization.”

Background on JC Tretter

• Tenure: Tretter has been with the NFLPA since October 2024.
• Career: The former NFL center played eight seasons with the Cleveland Browns and Green Bay Packers.
• Previous Role: He served as the NFLPA’s player president in 2023, overseeing hiring decisions that backfired amidst controversy.

Fallout from Howell’s Resignation

Lloyd Howell Jr. stepped down amid allegations related to a questionable confidentiality agreement and lavish spending on strip club outings, which were expensed to the union. In Tretter’s interview, he revealed that although Howell was chosen by the NFLPA board, he was not the executive committee’s first choice. The committee had voted 10-1 in favor of former SAG-AFTRA director David White.

The Future of NFLPA Leadership

As of now, the NFLPA has not appointed an interim executive director. Reports indicate that a meeting took place Sunday night to discuss potential candidates for the position. Among those being considered are:

• Don Davis: Chief Player Officer
• Zamir Cobb: Executive Director of the NFLPA Trust
• Ned Ehrlich: Associate General Counsel

Tretter’s Reflections on His Time with NFLPA

Tretter expressed deep affection for the players and the mission of the organization, stating, “I love the guys, and that’s why I’ve done what I’ve done for the last six years.” However, he also conveyed a sense of disillusionment:

“I fell in love with the idea of what this place could be. And over the last six weeks, I’ve realized what this place is, and the delta between those two things.”

Conclusion: A Critical Juncture for the NFLPA

The NFLPA is at a pivotal moment as it navigates these leadership changes. With internal challenges compounded by controversies, the union must reassess its direction and values while searching for new leadership.

For further insights, check out CBS Sports for updates on NFLPA developments.