Howie Long's Football Career: A Journey Through Perseverance And Passion

Dr. Newell Erdman 29 Jul 2025

Howie Long's football career is a testament to dedication, resilience, and excellence in the world of sports. Born and raised with a love for football, Long's journey took him from the gridiron fields of college to the prestigious halls of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His career was marked by numerous accolades, including nine Pro Bowl selections and seven First-Team All-Pro honors. This article delves into the life, achievements, and legacy of Howie Long, exploring what made him one of the most iconic defensive linemen in NFL history.

As a towering figure on the field, Howie Long not only left an indelible mark on football but also inspired generations of athletes. His relentless pursuit of greatness and commitment to his craft set him apart as a role model both on and off the field. In this article, we will explore the key milestones of his career, his impact on the game, and the values he instilled in others.

Whether you're a die-hard football fan or simply curious about the legendary careers that have shaped the sport, Howie Long's story is one that deserves recognition. Join us as we uncover the triumphs, challenges, and lessons learned throughout his remarkable football career.

Biography
Early Life and Education
College Career
NFL Journey
Pro Bowl Achievements
Leadership and Impact
Post-Retirement Life
Legacy
Key Statistics and Records
Conclusion

Biography

Howie Long, born Howard Norman Long on January 3, 1960, in Santa Clara, California, is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive linemen in NFL history. Over the course of his career, Long played for the Oakland Raiders from 1981 to 1993, earning numerous accolades and leaving a lasting legacy on the game of football. Below is a summary of his personal information:

Full Name	Howard Norman Long
Date of Birth	January 3, 1960
Place of Birth	Santa Clara, California
Position	Defensive End
Height	6'5"
Weight	270 lbs
Years Active	1981-1993
Team	Oakland Raiders

Howie Long's career was defined by his ability to dominate the line of scrimmage and his leadership qualities both on and off the field. His journey began with humble beginnings, and his rise to fame was fueled by determination and hard work.

Early Life and Education

Howie Long's early life laid the foundation for his future success. Growing up in Santa Clara, California, he developed a passion for football at a young age. His family's support and encouragement played a significant role in shaping his character and work ethic.

Long attended St. Francis High School, where he excelled as a two-way player, showcasing his versatility and athleticism. His impressive performances caught the attention of college scouts, leading to a scholarship offer from Villanova University. At Villanova, Long honed his skills and became a standout player, paving the way for his eventual entry into the NFL.

Key Achievements in College

Named First-Team All-American by the Associated Press in 1980.
Recorded 16 sacks during his senior season, earning him national recognition.
Established himself as one of the top defensive ends in college football.

College Career

Howie Long's college career at Villanova University was nothing short of spectacular. As a defensive end, he quickly became a force to be reckoned with, earning accolades and breaking records. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses and create pressure on quarterbacks made him a valuable asset to his team.

During his time at Villanova, Long's dedication to improving his craft was evident in his consistent performances. His hard work and perseverance paid off, as he earned numerous awards and honors, including being named a First-Team All-American. These achievements set the stage for his transition to the professional level.

Impact on Villanova Football

Howie Long's presence on the field had a profound impact on Villanova's football program. His leadership and work ethic inspired his teammates, contributing to the team's success during his tenure. His legacy at Villanova continues to inspire future generations of players.

NFL Journey

In 1981, Howie Long was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the first round of the NFL Draft, marking the beginning of an illustrious career. Over the next 13 seasons, Long established himself as one of the premier defensive linemen in the league. His ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage and create havoc for opposing offenses made him a cornerstone of the Raiders' defense.

Long's tenure with the Raiders was marked by numerous highlights, including multiple Pro Bowl appearances and All-Pro selections. His relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to his team earned him the respect of coaches, teammates, and opponents alike.

Notable Moments in the NFL

Selected to nine Pro Bowls during his career.
Named First-Team All-Pro seven times.
Helped lead the Raiders to a Super Bowl victory in 1980.

Pro Bowl Achievements

Howie Long's Pro Bowl achievements are a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to the game. Selected to the Pro Bowl nine times during his career, Long consistently demonstrated his dominance on the field. His ability to pressure quarterbacks, disrupt running plays, and make crucial stops earned him the admiration of fans and peers alike.

Each Pro Bowl selection was a reflection of Long's hard work and commitment to excellence. His performances in these games showcased his skills and reinforced his status as one of the top defensive linemen in the NFL.

Impact on the Pro Bowl

Howie Long's contributions to the Pro Bowl extended beyond his on-field performances. His presence brought excitement and anticipation to the annual event, drawing fans and media attention. His leadership and sportsmanship set a high standard for future participants.

Leadership and Impact

Howie Long's leadership qualities were evident throughout his career. Whether on the field or in the locker room, he inspired those around him with his work ethic and dedication. His ability to lead by example and communicate effectively made him a respected figure among his teammates and coaches.

Long's impact extended beyond the game itself. He became a role model for young athletes, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and integrity. His involvement in community initiatives and charitable endeavors further demonstrated his commitment to making a positive difference.

Lessons from Howie Long's Leadership

Emphasize the importance of hard work and dedication.
Lead by example and inspire others through actions.
Prioritize teamwork and collaboration for success.

Post-Retirement Life

Following his retirement from professional football in 1993, Howie Long transitioned into a successful career in broadcasting. He joined Fox Sports as an NFL analyst, bringing his wealth of knowledge and experience to a new platform. His insightful commentary and engaging personality made him a fan favorite in the world of sports media.

Long's post-retirement life also included involvement in various charitable endeavors and community service projects. His commitment to giving back to the community reflected his values and character, further cementing his legacy as a respected figure in the sports world.

Contributions to Sports Media

Howie Long's contributions to sports media have been significant. His ability to break down complex plays and strategies in an accessible manner has made him a valuable asset to Fox Sports. His insights and analysis continue to inform and entertain football fans around the world.

Legacy

Howie Long's legacy in the world of football is undeniable. His contributions to the game, both on and off the field, have left a lasting impact on the sport. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000, Long's place among the greats of the game is secure.

His legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements. Through his leadership, sportsmanship, and community involvement, Long has inspired countless individuals to pursue excellence and make a positive difference in their own lives.

Howie Long's Influence on Future Generations

Howie Long's influence on future generations of athletes is evident in the values he instilled and the example he set. His emphasis on hard work, dedication, and integrity continues to resonate with young players and fans alike. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and the importance of giving back to the community.

Key Statistics and Records

Howie Long's career was marked by numerous impressive statistics and records. Below are some of his most notable achievements:

Selected to nine Pro Bowls during his career.
Named First-Team All-Pro seven times.
Recorded 82.5 career sacks during his NFL tenure.
Helped lead the Raiders to a Super Bowl victory in 1980.

These statistics highlight Long's dominance on the field and his contributions to the success of the Oakland Raiders during his career.

Conclusion

Howie Long's football career is a story of perseverance, dedication, and excellence. From his early days at Villanova to his illustrious career with the Oakland Raiders, Long's journey has inspired countless individuals. His achievements on the field, coupled with his leadership and sportsmanship, have cemented his place among the greats of the game.

As we reflect on Howie Long's career, it is clear that his legacy extends far beyond the gridiron. His commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others, both during and after his playing days, underscores the values that made him a true role model. We invite you to share your thoughts and insights in the comments section below, and encourage you to explore other articles on our site for more captivating stories from the world of sports.

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