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3w ago

Billy Howton, Packers Star and NFLPA Pioneer, Dies at 95

Following confirmation by Bradshaw-Carter Funeral Home, the news drew tributes from Green Bay just before its preseason opener.

Wide receiver Billy Howton of the Green Bay Packers makes a catch during a game against the Philadelphia Eagles in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on November 2, 1952.
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Overview

  • Bradshaw-Carter Funeral Home confirmed on August 8 that Howton died in Houston on August 4 at age 95.
  • At the time of his death, he was believed to have been the oldest living former NFL player.
  • Howton forged early league milestones with the Packers, becoming the first rookie to exceed 1,000 receiving yards with 1,231 in 1952.
  • Upon retiring in 1963, he held the NFL’s all-time records with 503 receptions and 8,459 receiving yards and still owns Green Bay’s single-game mark of 257 yards.
  • He co-founded the NFL Players Association and served as its first president from 1958 to 1970, helping secure the league’s first pension plan and player-rights measures.