Retired Green Bay Packers and Cleveland Browns offensive lineman JC Tretter has been elected executive director of the NFL Players Association, the union announced Tuesday.
“There are times in your life when you know you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. That’s where I am today. I’m grateful for the trust my teammates have placed in me, and I intend to reward that trust with a full commitment to these players and chart a new direction for our association. My only goal is to build the strength of the NFLPA,” Tretter said in the NFLPA. “I understand the responsibility that comes with this role and how important it is to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with player leadership. This relationship has always played an important role in shaping the game, and that job is as important now as it has ever been. The NFLPA needs leadership that listens, leads with integrity and puts the players first every day. That’s exactly how I plan to lead.”
Tretter previously served as president of the NFLPA from 2020 to 2024 and was the union’s chief strategy officer, beginning in October 2024, but resigned in July 2025. Tretter’s resignation came just days after Lloyd Howell stepped down as executive director after ESPN reported that he was working part-time at the Carlylquie Group. which had league approval to seek minority ownership of an NFL franchise.
At the time, Tretter denied having any role in Howell’s resignation or having any interest in his position.
More than eight months later, Tretter has been appointed manager by a vote of the players’ representatives.
Tretter, 35, is expected to start April 1, NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero reported.
“On behalf of the Board of Player Representatives, we are proud to welcome JC Tretter as our new executive director and confident in the leadership he will bring to the union,” the NFLPA said in a statement. “This decision reflects the responsibility our players’ board members bear on behalf of each player. We conducted a thorough, thoughtful search to find the right long-term leader to deliver sustained, meaningful progress for our members. JC earned the trust of our board and demonstrated a clear commitment to serving this membership. We are excited for what lies ahead.”
“As our union moves into its next chapter, we would like to thank David White for his steadfast leadership and dedication over the past seven months, bringing stability and focus back to our union.”
According to the union, more than 300 candidates were considered.
Commissioner Roger Goodell congratulated Tretter, the NFLPA’s fifth executive director.
“I want to congratulate JC Tretter on his election as executive director of the NFL Players Association,” the statement read. “As a former player, JC brings a unique perspective to this important leadership role shaped by his first-hand experience and deep understanding of the men he represents. We have worked with JC for several years, first as union chair when he helped the league and the NFLPA navigate through COVID during the 2020 season. We look forward to building on that relationship to further our shared commitment to the safety and security of the global player.” the growth of our game for our fans, our players and our clubs.”