Howie Long Wiki, Bio, Networth, GF, Wife, Family & More

Brief Introduction of Howie Long

Howard “Howie” Long is a celebrated American football icon, distinguished for his formidable thirteen-season career as a defensive end with the Raiders franchise in the National Football League (NFL). His exceptional skill and tenacity on the field led to numerous accolades, including a Super Bowl XVIII victory, eight Pro Bowl selections, and three first-team All-Pro honors. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000. Following his retirement from football, Long seamlessly transitioned into a successful career as a sports analyst and actor. He has been a prominent studio analyst for Fox Sports’ NFL coverage since 1994, where his insightful commentary has earned him a Sports Emmy Award.

Howie Long Overview

Early Life and Education of Howie Long

Born in Somerville, Massachusetts, Howard “Howie” Long was raised in the blue-collar neighborhood of Charlestown, Boston. His childhood was marked by challenges, as his parents divorced when he was young, leading him to be raised primarily by his maternal grandmother and uncles. This upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of resilience and determination. Long attended Milford High School in Milford, Massachusetts, where he emerged as a versatile and gifted athlete. He lettered in football, basketball, and track, showcasing his exceptional athletic abilities. Despite not playing football until the age of 15, his natural talent led him to be named to the Scholastic Coach All-America team as a senior. In track and field, he set state records in the shot put and discus. After high school, Long accepted a football scholarship to Villanova University. At Villanova, he was a four-year letterman for the Wildcats football team and earned a degree in communications. His collegiate career was distinguished, and he was named the Most Valuable Player of the Blue–Gray Football Classic in 1980, which significantly raised his profile among NFL scouts.

Howie Long’s Career

College Career

At Villanova University, Howie Long quickly established himself as a dominant force on the defensive line. As a freshman, he started every game and recorded an impressive 99 tackles. He continued to excel, leading the team in sacks as a sophomore and again as a senior. Initially playing tight end, he was moved to the defensive line where he primarily played nose guard for his first two seasons before transitioning to defensive end. His performance in his senior year earned him All-East honors. A key moment in his collegiate career was his MVP performance in the 1980 Blue-Gray Football Classic, which showcased his talents to a national audience and solidified his standing as a top NFL prospect.

Professional Football Career

Howie Long was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft, as the 48th overall pick. He would go on to play his entire 13-season professional career with the Raiders organization, which relocated to Los Angeles during his tenure. Long quickly became a cornerstone of the Raiders’ formidable defense. Known for his size, speed, and versatility, he could play any position on the defensive line. A master of the “rip” move, he was a constant threat to opposing offenses. In 1983, Long was a key contributor to the Raiders’ victory in Super Bowl XVIII over the Washington Redskins. Throughout his career, he amassed 91.5 sacks (84 official, as sacks were not an official statistic his rookie year), 10 fumble recoveries, and two interceptions. His dominance was recognized with eight Pro Bowl selections, three first-team All-Pro selections, and two second-team All-Pro selections. In 1985, he was named the NEA co-Defensive Player of the Year and the NFL Alumni Defensive Lineman of the Year. He was also named to the NFL’s 1980s All-Decade Team. Long’s impact on the game was formally recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000.

Post-Football Career: Broadcasting and Acting

Following his retirement from the NFL after the 1993 season, Howie Long embarked on a successful career in broadcasting and acting. In 1994, he joined Fox Sports as a studio analyst for their pregame show, FOX NFL Sunday, a role he has held ever since. His insightful analysis and on-screen chemistry with his co-hosts, particularly Terry Bradshaw, have made the show a long-standing fan favorite. In 1997, Long’s broadcasting talents were recognized with a Sports Emmy Award for “Outstanding Sports Personality/Analyst.” Beyond the studio, Long also ventured into acting, appearing in several films, most notably action movies like Broken Arrow (1996) and Firestorm (1998), where he had a starring role. He has also made appearances in various television shows. Additionally, Long has been a sought-after personality for commercial endorsements, working with major brands such as Chevrolet, Radio Shack, and Nike.

Howie Long Personal Life & Family

Howie Long has been married to Diane Addonizio since 1982. The couple met during their freshman year at Villanova University. Diane is a lawyer by trade, having earned her degree from the University of Southern California School of Law, though she primarily focused on raising their family. Together, they have three sons: Chris, Kyle, and Howard Jr. The Long family has a remarkable football legacy. Their eldest son, Chris Long, followed in his father’s footsteps as a defensive end, playing for the St. Louis Rams, New England Patriots, and Philadelphia Eagles, and winning two Super Bowls. Their middle son, Kyle Long, was an offensive guard for the Chicago Bears and Kansas City Chiefs, earning three Pro Bowl selections. Their youngest son, Howard Jr., works in player personnel for the Las Vegas Raiders. The family is known to be close-knit, and Howie has often spoken about the joy he takes in his sons’ accomplishments. Long is a Roman Catholic.

Awards and Achievements of Howie Long

• Super Bowl XVIII Champion
• Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2000)
• 8-time Pro Bowl Selection (1983–1987, 1989, 1992, 1993)
• 3-time First-Team All-Pro (1983, 1984, 1985)
• 2-time Second-Team All-Pro (1986, 1989)
• NEA NFL co-Defensive Player of the Year (1985)
• NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
• NFL Alumni Defensive Lineman of the Year (1985)
• NFLPA AFC Defensive Lineman of the Year (1985)
• Walter Camp Man of the Year (2001)
• Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Sports Personality/Analyst (1997)

Howie Long Net Worth and Income

As of 2025, Howie Long’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $16 million. His wealth has been accumulated through various successful endeavors. His 13-season career in the NFL with the Raiders provided a significant portion of his initial earnings. Following his retirement from professional football, he transitioned into a lucrative broadcasting career with Fox Sports, where his annual salary is reported to be around $4 million. In addition to his broadcasting work, Long has substantially increased his income through numerous high-profile endorsement deals with major companies like General Motors, Nike, and Pepsi. He has also had a career in acting and has made strategic investments, including in real estate.

Legacy and Influence

Howie Long’s legacy is multifaceted, spanning his dominant career on the football field and his long-standing success in sports broadcasting. As a player, he is remembered as one of the most feared and versatile defensive linemen of his era, whose combination of size, strength, and quickness redefined the position. His relentless motor and on-field intensity set a standard for defensive excellence, culminating in his enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Beyond his playing days, Long has become one of the most recognizable faces in sports media. As a founding member of the FOX NFL Sunday broadcast team, he has influenced how a generation of fans watches and understands the game. His insightful analysis, coupled with his affable personality, has made him a respected and beloved figure. Furthermore, Long’s dedication to his family and his philanthropic efforts, including his work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, have solidified his image as a role model both on and off the screen. His family’s continued involvement in the NFL further extends his influence on the sport.

Interesting Facts about Howie Long

• He was a collegiate heavyweight boxing champion at Villanova University.
• Long did not start playing organized football until he was 15 years old.
• He was selected by legendary coach John Madden for the All-Madden teams in 1984 and 1985.
• He has authored a book titled “Football for Dummies” to help fans better understand the sport.
• At the time of his retirement, he was the last remaining player who had been with the Raiders organization before their move from Oakland to Los Angeles.
• Two of his sons, Chris and Kyle, were first-round NFL draft picks.
• He has been a national spokesperson for Chevrolet and General Motors for many years.

Controversies

Information not publicly available. Howie Long has maintained a relatively private and scandal-free public image throughout his career in the NFL and as a media personality.

Social Media Presence

• Instagram – Not publicly available
• Twitter – Not publicly available
• YouTube – Not publicly available

Final Words about Howie Long

Howie Long’s journey from a tough upbringing in Charlestown to the pinnacle of professional football and a celebrated career in broadcasting is a testament to his talent, hard work, and perseverance. His impact on the NFL is etched in the record books and immortalized in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Today, he remains a prominent and respected voice in the football world, continuing to share his passion and knowledge with millions of fans every week on FOX NFL Sunday. His legacy is not only defined by his on-field dominance but also by his successful transition into a beloved media personality and a dedicated family man. As a father who has seen two of his sons reach the highest levels of the sport, the Long name carries a significant and enduring legacy in the world of football. His story continues to inspire, showcasing a life of remarkable achievement and lasting influence.