NFL veteran Billy Howton, rumored to be the league's oldest living player, passes away at 95 years old
Billy Harris Howton, a legendary figure in the NFL, passed away at the age of 95 in Houston on August 4, 2025. Born in Littlefield, Texas, in 1930, Howton left an indelible mark on the sport during his 12-season career.
Howton's professional journey began when he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the second round of 1952. He quickly made his presence felt, becoming the first NFL rookie to record a 1,000-yard receiving season, finishing with an impressive 1,231 yards. His college football career at Rice University had already prepared him for greatness, earning him the title of a first-team All-American in 1951.
With the Packers, Howton proved to be a formidable force, securing two first-team All-Pro and four Pro Bowl selections. One of his most memorable moments came in 1957, when he scored the Packers' first receiving touchdown at Lambeau Field. In a 1956 game against the Los Angeles Rams, he also set a franchise single-game receiving record with 257 yards.
In 1959, Howton was traded to the Cleveland Browns, and the following year, he joined the Dallas Cowboys for their inaugural season. Under coach Tom Landry, he played alongside quarterbacks Eddie LeBaron and Don Meredith, finishing his career with the Cowboys.
Off the field, Howton was a pioneer, serving as the first president of the NFL Players Association. He played a crucial role in advocating for players' rights and was a founder of the organisation.
Howton's contributions to the sport were recognised with induction into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame in 1974. He was also honoured by the Professional Football Researchers Association Hall of Very Good. Despite his significant accomplishments, Howton has not been named a finalist or semifinalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
As the oldest living former NFL player at the time of his death, Howton's passing marks the end of an era for the sport. Bradshaw-Carter Funeral Home confirmed his death on Friday.
[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] - Sources documenting Billy Howton's career and achievements.
- Billy Howton's impressive NFL career began when he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers, where he proved to be a formidable force, playing American-football and setting records, such as being the first NFL rookie to record a 1,000-yard receiving season with 1,231 yards.
- After his retirement from the NFL, Howton continued to impact the sport off the field, serving as the first president of the NFL Players Association and advocating for players' rights, a testament to his enduring love for sports, particularly American-football.
