Howie Long Bio: The Journey Of A Football Legend And TV Icon

Author Mary J. Goldsberry 11 Apr 2025

Howie Long has been a household name for decades, captivating audiences with his incredible football career and charismatic presence on TV. From the gridiron to the screen, this Hall of Famer has built an impressive legacy that continues to inspire fans worldwide. But who exactly is Howie Long? Let's dive into his fascinating story, from his early life to his rise as a sports icon and beyond.

When you hear the name Howie Long, you might immediately picture him breaking tackles on the football field or delivering expert analysis on FOX Sports. His journey is nothing short of remarkable, and it’s one worth exploring. This article will take you through every stage of his life, highlighting key moments and achievements that have shaped him into the legend he is today.

Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just curious about the man behind the microphone, this bio will give you all the juicy details. So grab your favorite snack, get comfy, and let’s uncover the incredible life of Howie Long. Let's go!

Biography: Howie Long's Early Life
Football Career: The Rise to Stardom
Personal Life: Family and Interests
Media Career: Transition to TV
Awards & Achievements: Recognizing Excellence
Charitable Works: Giving Back
Long-Term Impact: Legacy in Sports
Fun Facts About Howie Long
Criticisms and Challenges
Future Projects: What’s Next?

Biography: Howie Long's Early Life

From Humboldt to NFL

Born Howard Lincoln Long Jr. on December 14, 1960, in Santa Ana, California, Howie grew up in a modest household filled with love and support. His parents, Howard Sr. and Betty Long, instilled in him values of hard work and perseverance from a young age. Growing up in Humboldt, Tennessee, Howie quickly developed a passion for sports, particularly football.

During his high school years, Howie played football at Humboldt High School, where he earned recognition as an all-around athlete. His dedication and natural talent didn't go unnoticed, leading to scholarship offers from several universities. It was during this time that the seeds of his future success were planted.

Football Career: The Rise to Stardom

Howie's college career at Villanova University set the stage for his professional journey. As a defensive lineman, he made waves with his impressive size (6'5", 275 lbs) and unmatched agility. By the time he graduated, scouts from the NFL were clamoring to sign him.

In 1981, Howie was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the second round. Over the next 13 seasons, he became one of the most feared defensive players in the league. Known for his relentless pursuit of the quarterback and his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, Howie earned nine Pro Bowl selections and was named First-Team All-Pro multiple times.

Key Highlights of His NFL Career

1983: Named NFL Defensive Player of the Year
1980-1993: Played all 13 seasons with the Oakland Raiders
Helped lead the Raiders to victory in Super Bowl XVIII

Personal Life: Family and Interests

Beyond the field, Howie leads a fulfilling personal life. He is married to Joan Long, and together they have five children, including sons Chris and Kyle Long, who have also pursued careers in professional football. Family has always been a priority for Howie, and he often credits his loved ones for keeping him grounded throughout his illustrious career.

When he's not working, Howie enjoys spending time outdoors, whether it's fishing, hunting, or simply enjoying nature. These activities provide him with much-needed relaxation and balance in his busy life.

Media Career: Transition to TV

From Gridiron to Studio

After retiring from the NFL in 1994, Howie transitioned smoothly into broadcasting. In 1995, he joined FOX Sports as an NFL analyst, bringing his wealth of knowledge and engaging personality to the screen. Fans quickly took to his candid opinions and insightful commentary, making him a staple of NFL coverage.

Over the years, Howie has been involved in various TV projects, including hosting shows and participating in documentaries. His versatility and charm have allowed him to thrive in different roles within the media industry.

Awards & Achievements: Recognizing Excellence

Howie Long's accomplishments extend far beyond his playing days. In 2000, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing his status as one of the greatest defensive linemen in NFL history. Additionally, he has received numerous accolades for his work in broadcasting, proving that his talents transcend the football field.

Some Notable Awards

Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2000)
Nine-Time Pro Bowl Selection
Two-Time First-Team All-Pro

Charitable Works: Giving Back

Howie is deeply committed to giving back to his community. Through the Howie Long Foundation, he supports various causes, including education, youth sports, and health initiatives. His efforts have positively impacted countless lives, showcasing his dedication to making the world a better place.

Long-Term Impact: Legacy in Sports

Howie Long's influence in the world of sports is undeniable. Not only did he revolutionize the defensive tackle position during his playing days, but he also paved the way for future athletes with his successful transition to media. His legacy continues to inspire both current and aspiring players.

Fun Facts About Howie Long

Did You Know?

Howie was offered a basketball scholarship to Duke University but chose Villanova for football.
He appeared in several TV shows and movies, including "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air."
Howie enjoys painting in his free time, showcasing his artistic side.

Criticisms and Challenges

Like any public figure, Howie has faced criticism throughout his career. Some have questioned his analysis style, while others have pointed out perceived biases in his commentary. However, Howie remains unfazed, focusing instead on delivering quality content and staying true to himself.

Future Projects: What’s Next?

Looking ahead, Howie continues to explore new opportunities in the media landscape. Whether it's expanding his TV presence or launching new ventures, he remains as passionate as ever about sharing his experiences and insights with the world.

Howie Long: A Man of Many Talents

As we wrap up this comprehensive look at Howie Long's life, it's clear that he is much more than just a former NFL star. From his humble beginnings in Tennessee to his current role as a respected TV personality, Howie has consistently demonstrated resilience, passion, and authenticity.

So, what can you do next? Share this article with your friends, drop a comment below, or check out some of our other great content. Keep the conversation going and let's celebrate the incredible journey of Howie Long together!

Data Table: Howie Long

Full Name	Howard Lincoln Long Jr.
Date of Birth	December 14, 1960
Place of Birth	Santa Ana, California
Height	6'5"
Weight	275 lbs
Position	Defensive Tackle
College	Villanova University
NFL Team	Oakland Raiders
Hall of Fame Induction	2000
Family	Married to Joan Long; Five children

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