Billy Howton, a legendary Green Bay Packers wide receiver and founder of the NFL Players Association, has passed away at 95. Born in Littlefield, Texas, in 1930, Howton was a trailblazer for player rights and set numerous records throughout his career. He was known for his exceptional receiving skills, leading the league in yards twice and being named to four Pro Bowls.
Howton’s impressive statistics include 8,459 receiving yards and 503 receptions, making him the NFL’s all-time leading receiver at the time of his retirement in 1963. He holds Green Bay’s single-game franchise record with 257 receiving yards against the Los Angeles Rams in 1956.
As a pioneer for player rights, Howton was instrumental in shaping the NFLPA into what it is today. His advocacy led to significant benefits for players, including pensions, disability benefits, and a stronger voice in football business. The NFLPA remembered him as “a key figure in the NFLPA’s formation & a pioneer for player rights.”
Howton played for seven teams over his 14-year career, including the Cleveland Browns and Dallas Cowboys, where he played under coach Tom Landry with quarterbacks Eddie LeBaron and Don Meredith. He was an All-American at Rice University and is a member of the Rice Hall of Fame.
The NFL community mourns the loss of Billy Howton, a true legend who left an indelible mark on the sport.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45926046/packers-star-billy-howton-first-nflpa-president-dies-95