Howell had been under intense scrutiny in a series of recent controversies and leaves the job after two years.

Thursday night’s news that NFL Players Association executive director Lloyd Howell has resigned isn’t necessarily the end. It’s possibly the beginning of a two-step process that will result in the NFLPA severing ties with the man most identified with the hiring of Howell in the first place.

The NFL and NFLPA concealed another grievance ruling, according to reports weeks after details behind a concealed collusion grievance ruling emerged.