Howie Long Football Family: The Dynasty That Shaped America's Favorite Sport

14 May, 2025

There’s something special about families that leave a lasting legacy in sports. When you hear the name Howie Long, it’s not just about one man’s achievements—it’s about a dynasty that has shaped the NFL and football culture as we know it today. The Howie Long football family isn’t just a household name; it’s a symbol of grit, perseverance, and excellence. This is the story of how one family turned their love for the game into a multi-generational success story.

Let’s be real, football isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life for millions of Americans. And when you talk about legends in the game, Howie Long’s name always comes up. But what makes this story even more fascinating is that it’s not just about Howie. It’s about his brothers, his son, and the entire family’s contribution to the sport. This isn’t just one player’s journey—it’s a family affair.

So, buckle up because we’re diving deep into the world of the Howie Long football family. From Howie’s Hall of Fame career to the rise of his son, Evan Long, this is a tale of talent, dedication, and the power of family ties. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just someone who loves a great underdog story, you’re gonna love this.

Who Is Howie Long?

Before we dive into the family dynamics, let’s talk about the man who started it all. Howie Long was born on February 4, 1961, in Santa Ana, California. He didn’t just grow up loving football—he lived it. From the moment he stepped onto the field, it was clear that Howie had a special gift. His journey began at Villanova University, where he quickly became a standout defensive end. But that’s just the beginning of the story.

Howie’s career in the NFL is nothing short of legendary. Drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 1981, he spent 13 incredible seasons with the team. During his time in the league, he earned nine Pro Bowl selections, three First-Team All-Pro honors, and was named to the NFL 1980s All-Decade Team. Oh, and let’s not forget—he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000. Talk about leaving a mark!

The Long Family Legacy

Now, here’s the kicker: Howie didn’t do it alone. The Long family has always been deeply rooted in football. In fact, Howie’s brothers, Tony and Chris, also played in the NFL. Talk about a family that knows the game inside and out. Together, they’ve built a legacy that extends far beyond individual achievements.

But what makes the Long family so special? It’s not just their talent—it’s their passion for the game. Football isn’t just a career for them; it’s a way of life. They’ve inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams, showing them that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

Howie Long's Brothers: The Unsung Heroes

Tony Long: The Quiet Force

Tony Long might not have the same level of fame as Howie, but his contributions to the game are undeniable. Drafted by the New York Jets in 1983, Tony carved out a solid career for himself as a linebacker. While he may not have received as much attention as his brother, Tony’s work ethic and dedication to the game were second to none.

What’s fascinating about Tony is how he managed to make a name for himself despite the shadow of his more famous sibling. He proved that success isn’t about comparisons—it’s about staying true to yourself and giving it your all. Tony’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and perseverance.

Chris Long: The Heart of the Defense

Then there’s Chris Long, who played college football at Villanova alongside Howie. Chris was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 1985 and spent five seasons in the NFL. Like Tony, Chris didn’t let his brother’s fame overshadow his own accomplishments. Instead, he focused on honing his skills and making a name for himself in the league.

Chris’s career might not have been as long as Howie’s, but his impact on the game was significant. He was known for his tenacity on the field and his ability to read opposing offenses. Chris’s story is a reminder that every player, no matter how long their career lasts, has the potential to leave a lasting legacy.

The Rise of Evan Long: Howie's Son

Now, let’s talk about the next generation of the Long family. Evan Long, Howie’s son, has followed in his father’s footsteps by pursuing a career in football. While Evan hasn’t reached the same level of success as his dad (yet!), he’s already making waves in the sports world. Evan played college football at the University of Southern California (USC), where he excelled as a defensive end.

What’s interesting about Evan’s journey is how he’s managed to carve out his own path while living up to the expectations of being a Long. It’s not easy being the son of a Hall of Famer, but Evan has shown that he’s got the talent and work ethic to make it on his own. Whether he ends up playing in the NFL or not, one thing’s for sure—Evan’s got a bright future ahead of him.

The Importance of Family in Sports

When you think about the Long family, one thing becomes crystal clear: family matters. In a world where individual achievement often takes center stage, the Longs have shown us the power of teamwork and support. Howie, Tony, and Chris all leaned on each other during their careers, and now Howie is doing the same for Evan.

But it’s not just about having a built-in cheering squad. The Long family has created a culture of excellence that spans generations. They’ve shown us that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about having the right mindset and the right support system. Whether you’re a professional athlete or just someone trying to achieve your goals, the Long family’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of family.

Howie Long's Impact on the NFL

Howie Long’s influence on the NFL extends far beyond his playing career. After retiring from the league, Howie transitioned into broadcasting, where he’s become one of the most respected voices in sports. His work on shows like Fox NFL Sunday has brought his unique perspective and insight to millions of fans around the world.

But Howie’s impact goes deeper than just being a commentator. He’s been a mentor to countless young players, offering advice and guidance to help them succeed both on and off the field. Howie’s commitment to excellence and his willingness to give back to the game have made him a true icon in the NFL.

Key Stats and Facts About the Howie Long Football Family

Here are some quick facts and stats about the Howie Long football family:

Howie Long was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 1981 and played 13 seasons in the NFL.
He earned nine Pro Bowl selections and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
Tony Long played for the New York Jets from 1983 to 1989, earning a reputation as a solid linebacker.
Chris Long played for the Buffalo Bills from 1985 to 1989 and was known for his defensive prowess.
Evan Long played college football at USC and is continuing the family tradition as a defensive end.

The Future of the Howie Long Football Family

As the next generation of the Long family continues to make its mark on the sports world, one thing is certain: the legacy will live on. Evan Long is just the beginning of what could be another chapter in the family’s storied history. With Howie’s guidance and support, there’s no telling how far Evan can go.

But the Long family’s impact isn’t limited to just football. They’ve shown us that success isn’t just about individual achievement—it’s about building something that lasts. Whether it’s through their work in the NFL or their contributions to the community, the Longs have left an indelible mark on the world of sports.

Lessons We Can Learn from the Howie Long Football Family

So, what can we learn from the Howie Long football family? First and foremost, we can learn the value of hard work and dedication. The Longs didn’t just succeed because they were talented—they succeeded because they worked harder than anyone else. They also teach us the importance of family and the power of support systems. Finally, they remind us that success isn’t just about personal achievement—it’s about leaving a legacy that inspires others.

Whether you’re an aspiring athlete or just someone looking to achieve your dreams, the Long family’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when you combine talent, hard work, and family support.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Howie Long football family is more than just a group of talented athletes—they’re a symbol of excellence, perseverance, and family unity. From Howie’s Hall of Fame career to the rise of his son, Evan, this family has left an indelible mark on the world of sports. They’ve shown us that success isn’t just about individual achievement—it’s about building something that lasts.

So, what’s next for the Howie Long football family? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure—they’ll continue to inspire and influence the world of sports for years to come. If you’re a fan of football or just someone who loves a great story, the Long family’s journey is definitely worth following.

Now, it’s your turn. What did you think of this article? Do you have a favorite member of the Howie Long football family? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family. Together, let’s keep the conversation going!

Who Is Howie Long?
The Long Family Legacy
Howie Long's Brothers: The Unsung Heroes
The Rise of Evan Long: Howie's Son
The Importance of Family in Sports
Howie Long's Impact on the NFL
Key Stats and Facts
The Future of the Howie Long Football Family
Lessons We Can Learn
Conclusion

The Life And Career Of Howie Long (Story)

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