Howie Long And Family: A Deep Dive Into The Legendary Football Icon And His Clan

When you think of Howie Long, you're not just thinking about a Hall of Fame football player; you're thinking about a man who defined toughness, leadership, and resilience on the field. His career in the NFL was nothing short of legendary, but what about the man behind the jersey? What about the family that shaped him and continues to support him? Today, we're diving deep into the world of Howie Long and family, exploring his journey from the gridiron to the screen, and how his family has been a cornerstone of his success.

Howie Long’s name is synonymous with excellence in the NFL, but there’s so much more to the story. This isn’t just about a guy who played football; it’s about a guy who became a cultural icon, a role model, and a beloved TV personality. His family has always played a huge role in his life, and today, we’re going to peel back the layers and explore how they’ve influenced his journey.

So, whether you’re a die-hard football fan, a fan of A&E's "Live PD," or just curious about the man behind the mic, this article is for you. We’re going to cover everything from Howie’s early days to his rise in the NFL, his transition to TV, and the family that’s always been by his side. Let’s get started!

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Table of Contents

• Biography of Howie Long
• Family Background
• Howie Long's NFL Career
• Transition to TV Career
• Personal Life and Family
• Howie Long's Kids
• Charitable Work
• Legacy in Football and Beyond
• Fun Facts About Howie Long
• Conclusion

Biography of Howie Long

Let’s kick things off with a little background on Howie Long himself. Born on February 4, 1961, in Santa Clara, California, Howie grew up in a family that valued hard work and dedication. His dad, Bob Long, was a college football coach, and his mom, Joan, was a school teacher. From an early age, Howie was surrounded by the sport, and it wasn’t long before he found his way onto the field.

Howie’s journey to the NFL began at Villanova University, where he played defensive end. Standing at 6’5” and weighing 275 pounds, he was a force to be reckoned with. In 1981, he was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the second round, and the rest, as they say, is history. Over the course of his 13-year career, Howie earned nine Pro Bowl selections, three First-Team All-Pro honors, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000.

But Howie’s story doesn’t end there. After retiring from the NFL, he transitioned into broadcasting, where he quickly became a household name. His work on FOX Sports earned him praise for his insightful analysis and charismatic presence. And let’s not forget his role as a co-host on A&E’s "Live PD," which brought him even closer to fans across the country.

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Early Life and Education

Growing up in Santa Clara, Howie was surrounded by a tight-knit community that emphasized the importance of education and athletics. His parents instilled in him the values of discipline and perseverance, which would later define his career. At St. Francis High School, Howie excelled both academically and athletically, earning a football scholarship to Villanova University.

At Villanova, Howie quickly made a name for himself as one of the top defensive players in college football. His combination of size, speed, and intelligence made him a standout, and it wasn’t long before NFL scouts had their eyes on him. But it wasn’t just his physical abilities that set him apart; it was his work ethic and passion for the game.

Family Background

Howie Long’s family has always been a key part of his life. His parents, Bob and Joan, were instrumental in shaping the man he is today. Bob, a college football coach, taught Howie the importance of teamwork and strategy, while Joan instilled in him the value of education and compassion.

Howie’s wife, Diane Long, has been by his side for over three decades. The couple met in college and have been inseparable ever since. Together, they have five children, each of whom has followed in their father’s footsteps in one way or another.

Diane Long: The Woman Behind the Man

Diane Long is more than just Howie’s wife; she’s his rock. A former teacher, Diane has always been supportive of Howie’s career, whether it was on the field or in front of the camera. Her calm demeanor and unwavering support have been a constant source of strength for Howie and their family.

Here’s a quick look at Howie and Diane’s family:

Howie Long's NFL Career

Howie Long’s NFL career is the stuff of legends. Drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 1981, Howie quickly established himself as one of the best defensive ends in the league. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses and his relentless pursuit of the quarterback made him a nightmare for opposing teams.

Over the course of his career, Howie accumulated an impressive list of accolades. He was named to the Pro Bowl nine times, selected as a First-Team All-Pro three times, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000. But beyond the stats and awards, Howie’s impact on the game was immeasurable. He was known for his sportsmanship, leadership, and dedication to excellence.

Key Achievements in the NFL

• 9-time Pro Bowl Selection
• 3-time First-Team All-Pro
• Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000
• Named to the NFL 1980s All-Decade Team

Howie’s impact on the Raiders organization was profound. He helped lead the team to two Super Bowl appearances and was a key player during their dominant years in the 1980s. His presence on the field was unmatched, and his influence on younger players was immense.

Transition to TV Career

After retiring from the NFL, Howie Long made a seamless transition to broadcasting. His natural charisma and deep understanding of the game made him a perfect fit for the world of sports media. He joined FOX Sports in 1998, where he quickly became one of the network’s most popular analysts.

Howie’s work on FOX Sports earned him praise from both fans and critics alike. His ability to break down complex plays and strategies in a way that was both informative and entertaining made him a standout in the industry. But Howie didn’t stop there. In 2016, he joined A&E’s "Live PD," where he brought his unique perspective to the world of law enforcement.

Impact on Broadcasting

Howie’s impact on sports broadcasting cannot be overstated. His work on FOX Sports helped elevate the network’s coverage of the NFL, and his presence on "Live PD" brought a new level of authenticity to the show. His ability to connect with viewers and provide insight into both sports and law enforcement has made him one of the most respected voices in media today.

Personal Life and Family

Howie Long’s personal life is as fascinating as his professional one. His family has always been a key part of his life, and he’s never been shy about expressing his gratitude for their support. From his wife Diane to his five children, Howie’s family has been a constant source of inspiration and joy.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Howie’s family is how many of his children have followed in his footsteps. Both of his sons, Jason and Cole, played football at the collegiate and professional levels, while his daughter Ashley has pursued a career in acting. His younger daughter, Hannah, and son, Jack, are still in school, but there’s no doubt that they’ll make their mark in their own ways.

Howie Long's Kids

Let’s take a closer look at Howie’s kids and their accomplishments:

• Jason Long: A former NFL player who played for the Chicago Bears and New York Jets.
• Cole Long: A former NFL player who played for the Indianapolis Colts and New York Jets.
• Ashley Long: An actress who has appeared in several TV shows and films.
• Hannah Long: A student who is pursuing her education and exploring her interests.
• Jack Long: A student who is following in his father’s footsteps on the football field.

Howie’s children are a testament to the values he and Diane instilled in them. Whether it’s through sports, entertainment, or education, they’ve all found their own paths to success.

Charitable Work

Howie Long’s commitment to giving back to the community is another testament to his character. Over the years, he’s been involved in numerous charitable endeavors, using his platform to make a difference in the lives of others.

One of his most notable charitable efforts is the Howie Long 1st and Goal Foundation, which provides resources and support to underserved communities. The foundation focuses on education, health, and wellness, and has made a significant impact on countless lives.

Howie Long 1st and Goal Foundation

The Howie Long 1st and Goal Foundation was established in 2000, the same year Howie was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The foundation’s mission is to empower individuals and communities through education, health, and wellness programs. Some of its key initiatives include:

• Providing scholarships to deserving students
• Supporting youth sports programs
• Promoting healthy lifestyles through fitness and nutrition programs

Through his foundation, Howie has been able to give back to the communities that have supported him throughout his career. His dedication to making a difference is a testament to his character and values.

Legacy in Football and Beyond

Howie Long’s legacy extends far beyond the football field. While his accomplishments in the NFL are undeniable, his impact on the world of broadcasting and charitable work has been equally significant. He’s a role model for countless fans and aspiring athletes, and his family has played a crucial role in shaping the man he is today.

Howie’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life is what sets him apart. Whether he’s breaking down a play on FOX Sports or sharing his insights on "Live PD," he’s always authentic and genuine. His work with the Howie Long 1st and Goal Foundation has also left a lasting impact on communities across the country.

Howie Long's Impact on Future Generations

Howie’s influence on future generations cannot be overstated. His dedication to excellence, both on and off the field, serves as an inspiration to young athletes and fans alike.