William Harris "Billy" Howton (born July 5, 1930) is a former American football end who played 12 seasons in the National Football League (1952-1963). He played college football at Rice University. He caught a total 503 career passes for a total of 8,459 yards. In doing so, he surpassed then leader Don Hutson to become the all-time leader in receptions and yardage (Since then his ranking has fallen to below 50.) Despite this, he has yet to be name a finalist in Pro Football Hall of Fame balloting. He retired in 1963 after four years with the Dallas Cowboys. He caught 13 touchdown passes in his 1952 rookie season. On October 21, 1956, Howton caught seven passes for a total of 257 yards against the Los Angeles Rams.