Howie Long Biography: Age, Wife, Career, Net Worth FOX Sports

Howie Long is an American former NFL defensive end, sports analyst, and actor best known for his legendary football career with the Los Angeles Raiders and his long-running role as a studio analyst on FOX NFL Sunday.

Revered as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, Long’s transition from the gridiron to television and film has made him a respected and enduring figure in American sports and entertainment.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Howie Long was born on January 6, 1960, in Somerville, Massachusetts, and grew up in Charlestown. Raised by his uncles after the early passing of his parents, Long developed resilience and discipline from a young age.

He attended Milford High School, where he excelled in multiple sports, including basketball, track, and football. His athletic prowess earned him a scholarship to Villanova University, where he played college football and graduated with a degree in Communications.

During his college career, Long was a standout defensive lineman, earning recognition for his power, speed, and leadership. His exceptional performance led to his selection in the 1981 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Raiders.

Howie Long Age

Howie Long was born in Somerville, Massachusetts in the United States of America on January 6, 1960. He is 65 years old.

Howie Long Height

Howie stands at 6 ft 5 in/1.96 m tall.

Personal Life

Howie Long has been married to Diane Addonizio since 1982. The couple met during college at Villanova and have been together for over four decades — a rarity in professional sports circles. They have three sons: Chris, Kyle, and Howard Jr.

Chris Long, a former defensive end, is a two-time Super Bowl champion, while Kyle Long was a Pro Bowl offensive lineman for the Chicago Bears. Howard Jr. works in football operations for the Raiders organization.

Off-screen, Howie is known for his humility, family devotion, and philanthropy. He supports numerous charities, including veterans’ organizations and youth sports programs.

Howie Long Family

Howie was born in the United States to hardworking and supportive parents in Somerville, Massachusetts. Long was raised in Charlestown, Boston by his uncles and grandmother.

Howie Long Wife

Howie is happily married to Diane Addonizio, they exchanged vows in 1982. When Howie was a freshman at Villanova, they first met. They are blessed with parents of three sons, Chris, Kyle and Howie Jr.

Howie Long Kids

Long is the father of three sons. Chris, a former defensive end for the New England Patriots, St. Louis Rams and Philadelphia Eagles. In the 2008 NFL Draft, he was selected second overall. Kyle, his second child, is a guard for the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chicago Bears selected him in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft. HowieJr. is the third Raiders son to work on player personnel.

Career Journey

NFL Career (1981–1993)

Howie Long spent his entire 13-season NFL career with the Los Angeles Raiders, quickly becoming one of the most feared defensive ends in the league. Known for his explosive strength and relentless play, he was an anchor of the Raiders’ defense throughout the 1980s.

• Super Bowl XVIII Champion (1984)
• 8× Pro Bowl Selection (1983–1987, 1989, 1992, 1993)
• NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1985)
• Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2000)

Long’s on-field performance was characterized by dominance and discipline. He was instrumental in leading the Raiders to multiple playoff appearances and remains one of the franchise’s most beloved figures.

Acting Career (1990s)

After retiring from football in 1993, Howie transitioned to acting, starring in several films and television projects. Some of his notable film appearances include:

• Broken Arrow (1996) – alongside John Travolta
• Firestorm (1998) – lead role as firefighter Jesse Graves
• 3000 Miles to Graceland (2001)

His strong screen presence and charisma helped him gain recognition beyond sports.

Broadcasting Career (1994–Present)

In 1994, Howie Long joined FOX NFL Sunday as a studio analyst — a position he still holds today. His insightful analysis, sharp wit, and balanced commentary have made him a fan favorite among football audiences.

Over three decades, Long has built a reputation as one of the most respected voices in sports broadcasting. He’s part of the award-winning FOX Sports team alongside terry bradshaw, Jimmy Johnson, and Michael Strahan.

Recent Activity (2025)

As of 2025, Howie continues his work on FOX NFL Sunday, contributing weekly insights and interviews. He also appears in NFL-related special programming, and occasionally mentors young players, including those following in his sons’ footsteps. His sons — Chris Long and Kyle Long — both went on to have successful NFL careers, furthering the family legacy.

Awards & Achievements

• Super Bowl XVIII Champion (1984)
• NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1985)
• 8× Pro Bowl Selection
• 3× First-Team All-Pro
• Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2000)
• Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Studio Analyst (1997)
• NFL 1980s All-Decade Team

Physical Statistics

Quotes

1. “You can’t fake passion. You either love what you do or you don’t.” – Howie Long
2. “Great players make everyone around them better.” – Howie Long
3. “Discipline and preparation — that’s what separates good from great.” – Howie Long

Controversies

Howie Long has maintained a remarkably clean reputation throughout his career. While he’s known for his strong opinions on football, he’s avoided major personal or professional controversies. His conduct, both on and off the field, has earned him universal respect.

Favorites

• Favorite Team (NFL): Los Angeles Raiders
• Favorite Movie: The Godfather
• Favorite Actor: robert de Niro
• Favorite Food: Grilled steak
• Favorite Hobby: Golf & mentoring young athletes

Salary & Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Howie Long’s estimated net worth is $16 million. His wealth comes from his long NFL career, acting, endorsements, and over 30 years as a FOX Sports analyst.

Estimated annual earnings:

• FOX Sports salary: ~$4 million/year
• Brand endorsements & guest appearances: ~$250,000/year
• NFL pension & investments: ~$100,000+/year

Interesting Facts

• Howie was drafted 48th overall in the 1981 NFL Draft.
• He was once offered a WWE appearance but declined.
• His sons’ combined NFL careers span over two decades.
• He has been part of FOX NFL Sunday since its inception in 1994.
• He’s a licensed pilot and an avid car enthusiast.

Social Media Links

(Note: Howie Long maintains limited official social media presence.)

• FOX Sports Profile: Howie Long on FOX Sports
• IMDb: Howie Long

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is Howie Long famous for?
A: Howie Long is best known for his NFL career with the Los Angeles Raiders and as a long-time FOX NFL Sunday analyst.

Q2: How old is Howie Long in 2025?
A: He is 65 years old as of 2025.

Q3: Who is Howie Long’s wife?
A: His wife is Diane Addonizio, whom he married in 1982.

Q4: How many children does Howie Long have?
A: He has three sons — Chris, Kyle, and Howard Jr.

Q5: What is Howie Long’s net worth?
A: Approximately $16 million in 2025.

Q6: Is Howie Long still on FOX NFL Sunday?
A: Yes, he continues to appear as a studio analyst for FOX Sports.

Conclusion

Howie Long’s life story embodies excellence, longevity, and integrity. From his Hall of Fame football career to his acclaimed broadcasting role, he remains one of the most respected figures in American sports. His legacy continues through his family, philanthropy, and enduring presence on television.

If you found this biography informative, share it with fellow football fans who admire Howie’s incredible journey.