Ken Houston
Inducted:
1986

Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
197 lb (89 kg)
Born:
November 12, 1944
Lufkin, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Safety
College:
Prairie View A&M (1963–1966)
Ken Houston was one of the most dominant safeties in NFL history, playing 14 seasons from 1967 to 1980 with the Houston Oilers and Washington Redskins. Renowned for his exceptional coverage skills, tackling ability, and knack for game-changing plays, Houston was a constant defensive threat.
He recorded 49 career interceptions, returning nine for touchdowns, and added 21 fumble recoveries, showcasing his instinct for the football. Houston was remarkably durable, never missing a game in his career, and his consistency earned him selection to 12 consecutive Pro Bowls. His leadership and versatility made him a cornerstone of Washington’s defense in the 1970s, where he helped guide the team to multiple playoff appearances.
Known for his intelligence and ability to read offenses, Houston built a reputation as one of the most respected players of his era. In 1986, he was honored with induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, securing his place among the all-time greats.
Houston's Awards and Honors
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1975, 1978)
- 10× Second-team All-Pro (1968–1974, 1976, 1977, 1979)
- 12× Pro Bowl (1968–1979)
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- First-team NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- Never missed a game in 14 NFL seasons
- Most consecutive Pro Bowl selections by a safety – 12 straight
- Most interception return yards by a safety in a single season
- Only defensive back in NFL history to score touchdowns in six consecutive seasons
- Most career defensive touchdowns by a defensive back at the time of his retirement
NFL Teams
Houston Oilers (1967–1972)
Washington Redskins (1973–1980)
NHL Draft:
1967: 9th round, 214th overall
Houston Oilers
Number Worn:
29, 27
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1967–1980)
Games Played:
196
Interceptions:
49
Interception Return Yards:
898
Interception Return Touchdowns:
9
Fumble Recoveries:
21
Defensive Touchdowns:
12 total
Pro Bowl Selections:
12 consecutive (1968–1979)

