Steve: thanks for the information. I called Recreation.gov today, and it seems like there is now another possibility. The group leader can call the permit office a few days before the hike date, and tell them that someone else in their group is going to pick up the permit.
I asked them if the group leader could do that right now, but the answer was no. It has something to do with scalpers buying up permits, and then selling them for a higher price.
