Billy Howton, Green Bay Packers Legend, Passes Away
Houston – The world of American football mourns the loss of Billy Howton, an emblematic figure of the Green Bay Packers and a pioneer in the NFL. Howton, recognized as one of the most prolific receivers of the pre-Super Bowl era and founder of the NFL Players Association, passed away at the age of 95.
According to his obituary, Howton died in Houston on August 4. Bradshaw-Carter Funeral Home confirmed the death on Friday.
Born in Littlefield, Texas, in 1930, Howton was considered the NFL’s longest-tenured player.
Howton left an indelible mark on Packers history. In 1957, he scored the first touchdown reception at the iconic Lambeau Field. Selected in the second round of the 1952 draft, Howton became the first NFL rookie to surpass 1,000 receiving yards, accumulating 1,231 yards in his debut season. He led the league in receiving yards twice, was called to four Pro Bowls, and was named All-Pro three times.
He still holds the Green Bay franchise record with 257 receiving yards in a single game, achieved in 1956 against the Los Angeles Rams. At the time of his retirement in 1963, he was the NFL’s all-time leader in receptions (503) and receiving yards (8,459). His legacy was recognized by his induction into the Packers Hall of Fame in 1974.
“For me, Howton is the most difficult receiver to cover in the National League.”
After seven years in Green Bay, Howton was traded to the Cleveland Browns in 1959 and then to Dallas, becoming part of the inaugural Cowboys team in 1960. He played the rest of his career there, under coach Tom Landry, with quarterbacks Eddie LeBaron and Don Meredith.
Howton, who was an All-American at Rice University, is also a member of the Rice Hall of Fame.
