Howie Long is one of those rare individuals who seamlessly transitioned from a successful career in professional sports to becoming a household name in entertainment and broadcasting. Best known for his years on the field with the Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders, Long carved out a legacy that transcends football. Now 64 years old, with a net worth of $16 million, Howie Long continues to remain relevant, inspiring fans across generations.
Early Life: Building a Strong Foundation
Howard Matthew Moses Long was born on January 6, 1960, in Somerville, Massachusetts. His upbringing in Milford set the stage for his impressive athletic career. In high school, Long didn’t limit himself to football. Sure, he lettered in the sport for three years, but he also showcased his talent in basketball and track and field.
Long was not just an average high school athlete; he was a record breaker. His prowess in discus and shot put revealed early on that he was destined for greatness. Little did Milford High know, but they were fostering one of the future legends of the NFL.
After high school, Long attended Villanova University. From day one, he stood out on the football field. As a freshman, he racked up 99 tackles, a sign of what was to come. By the time he wrapped up his college career, he had not only 84 tackles as a senior but also the Northern Collegiate Heavyweight Boxing Championship under his belt. Oh, and he graduated with a degree in communications. Talk about a triple threat!
NFL Career: A Defensive End Like No Other
Howie Long’s NFL journey began in 1981 when the Oakland Raiders drafted him. Donning number 75, Long quickly became one of the most dominant defensive ends in the league. Over his 13-year career, he recorded over 91 sacks, earning himself eight Pro Bowl selections and three All-Pro honors.
But Long wasn’t just about the stats. His on-field performance was a spectacle. One of his signature moves, the “rip,” was legendary. This quick uppercut would break the grip of opposing blockers, leaving them scrambling as Long charged toward the quarterback.
His hard work paid off in 1984 when the Raiders won the Super Bowl. Long’s impact wasn’t just felt in that game; he had solidified himself as one of the key players in one of the most formidable defensive fronts in NFL history.
In 1985, Long won the George S. Halas Trophy, further cementing his place as one of the NFL’s greats. By 1986, he had already been voted to the Pro Bowl four times consecutively, and his dominance showed no signs of slowing.
When he finally retired in 1993, Long left behind a legacy that few could match. He had witnessed the Raiders’ transition from Oakland to Los Angeles and was one of the last original Oakland players still standing. In 2000, he was rightfully inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Life After Football: Lights, Camera, Action!
For most athletes, retirement marks the end of the spotlight. For Howie Long, it was just the beginning of a new chapter. His chiseled features and natural charisma made him a perfect fit for Hollywood.
Long appeared in a string of action films, including “Firestorm,” “Broken Arrow,” and “3000 Miles to Graceland.” His on-screen presence was magnetic, but he didn’t stop there. Brands like Radio Shack, Coors Light, Nike, and Campbell’s Chunky Soup tapped Long to star in their commercials.
However, broadcasting seemed to be Long’s true calling. He joined Fox Sports as an NFL analyst, where his insights and personality made him a fan favorite. In 1997, he was awarded a Sports Emmy for Outstanding Sports Personality. Howie Long’s “Tough Guys” segment became a staple for NFL fans, blending his knowledge of the game with entertaining storytelling.
Family Legacy: Passing the Torch
Football isn’t just Howie Long’s legacy—it’s a family affair. His sons, Chris Long and Kyle Long, followed in his footsteps and made their own marks in the NFL. Chris had a particularly impressive career, winning two Super Bowls, while Kyle became a key player for the Chicago Bears.
Howie Long has always been open about his pride in his sons’ accomplishments, and the Long family name continues to be synonymous with excellence on the gridiron.
Howie Long’s Net Worth and Salary
Fast forward to today, and Howie Long’s estimated net worth stands at $16 million. His annual earnings come in around $4 million, thanks to his broadcasting role at Fox Sports and endorsement deals with major brands like General Motors.
Long’s ability to stay relevant for decades speaks to his adaptability and enduring popularity. Even off the field, he’s found ways to build wealth and stay connected to the sport he loves.
Real Estate Moves
Long’s financial acumen extends beyond sports and entertainment. In 2019, his son Chris sold a property in Charlottesville, Virginia, for $2.45 million. The 5,000-square-foot home featured four bedrooms, a theater, a bar, and a patio, representing a substantial profit margin from its original purchase price of $1 million in 2011.
It seems that smart investments run in the Long family as well.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy of Howie Long
Howie Long’s career is a testament to hard work, adaptability, and passion. From dominating on the field to entertaining on the screen and offering sharp analysis in the broadcasting booth, Long has done it all.
At 64 years old, he continues to inspire fans and athletes alike. His story is a reminder that life doesn’t stop after retirement—sometimes, it just shifts to a different stage.
If you grew up watching Long wreak havoc in the NFL or tuned in to Fox for his analysis, one thing is certain: Howie Long is more than just a football player. He’s a legend whose influence stretches far beyond the gridiron.
