Veteran NFL player Billy Howton, the inaugural player union president for the Green Bay Packers, passes away at the age of 95
Billy Howton, Pioneering Figure in NFL Players Association, Passes Away at 95
Billy Howton, a former Green Bay Packers wide receiver and the first-ever president of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), has died at the age of 95 in Houston. The details of his death cause were not revealed.
Howton's career in professional football spanned over a decade, during which he made significant contributions to the game both on and off the field. He was selected by the Packers in the second round of the 1952 player draft and went on to have an impactful two-year stint as the NFLPA's first president from 1958 to 1962.
During his time as president, Howton attended every player representative meeting from 1956 through 1961, advocating for player rights and welfare. His leadership during the NFLPA’s formative phase was instrumental in establishing the foundation for collective bargaining and representation, which would evolve significantly in later decades. While specific policy achievements during his presidency are not detailed, his steady involvement and leadership helped the NFLPA transition from a fledgling organization into a credible voice advocating for player benefits.
One of Howton's most notable achievements during his tenure as NFLPA president was his advocacy for pay fairness, especially regarding compensation for training camp and preseason exhibition games. He also helped unify players across teams and represented the Packers in the NFLPA's first board meeting.
In addition to his work with the NFLPA, Howton had a successful career on the field. He was the first-ever wide receiver to score a receiving touchdown at historic Lambeau Field (then known as City Stadium) and held the team record for most receiving yards in a single game with 257 yards versus the Rams in 1957. After his time with the Packers, Howton was traded to the Cleveland Browns in 1959 and later played for the Dallas Cowboys. At the time of his retirement after the 1963 season, he held NFL records for most career receptions and receiving yards.
Howton was inducted into the Packers Hall of Fame in 1974 and is survived by his three children, Karin, Kimberly, and William, as well as his sister Sylvia Baker and extended family.
Billy Howton's role as the NFLPA's first president and early organizer represents a significant contribution to the advancement of NFL player rights, setting precedents followed by future union leaders. His legacy will continue to be remembered and celebrated in the football community.
References:
- NFLPA History
- Billy Howton's NFLPA Biography
- Billy Howton's Pro Football Hall of Fame Biography
As a pioneering figure in the NFL Players Association, Billy Howton served as its first president from 1958 to 1962, promoting pay fairness, unifying players, and establishing foundational groundwork for collective bargaining in American football, particularly in the NFL. Despite retiring from the game after the 1963 season, his impact extended beyond the field as he continues to be remembered and celebrated in both the NFL and American football communities.
