On March 17, 2026, JC Tretter was elected as the next executive director of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) in San Diego, California. This election comes nearly eight months after Lloyd Howell resigned from the position amid various scandals in July 2025. The NFLPA had been actively searching for a permanent leader since Howell’s departure, with Tretter emerging from an initial field of 300 candidates.
Tretter, who previously served as the NFLPA’s player president from 2020 to 2024 and was the chief strategy officer prior to his election, faced competition from interim executive director David White and American Conference commissioner Tim Pernetti. His election reflects the trust placed in him by the Board of Player Representatives.
In his acceptance remarks, Tretter stated, “I understand the responsibility that comes with this role and how important it is to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with player leadership.” He expressed gratitude for the trust his fellow players have placed in him, promising to commit fully to their needs and to chart a new course for the union.
The NFLPA’s collective bargaining agreement is set to expire in 2030, making Tretter’s leadership crucial as the organization navigates upcoming negotiations. His experience in previous negotiations with the NFL on the last collective bargaining agreement positions him well for this challenge.
Roger Goodell, the NFL Commissioner, praised Tretter’s election, noting, “As a former player, JC brings a unique perspective to this critical leadership role shaped by his firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the men he represents.” This sentiment underscores the importance of having a leader who is both experienced and empathetic to the players’ concerns.
During his tenure as player president, Tretter organized a players-only offseason golf tournament in Mexico, showcasing his commitment to fostering unity among players. His election is seen as a significant step towards ensuring that player voices are heard and represented effectively.
The NFLPA Board of Player Representatives emphasized the thoroughness of the search process, stating, “We conducted a thorough, deliberate search to identify the right long-term leader to deliver sustained, meaningful progress for our members.” This careful approach reflects the board’s commitment to finding a leader who can navigate the complexities of player representation.
As Tretter steps into this new role, he faces the challenge of addressing the legal costs that have risen significantly in recent years, from an average of $5.1 million per year from 2016 to 2022 to $18.1 million for the year ending February 2025. This financial aspect will be critical as he seeks to manage the union’s resources effectively.
With Tretter at the helm, the NFLPA is poised for a new chapter, one that aims to prioritize player welfare and ensure that their interests are safeguarded in the evolving landscape of professional football.
