Howie Long's Sons Football: Carrying On A Gridiron Legacy
When you think about football families, there are some names that just stand out, and the Long family is definitely one of them. It's almost like a natural progression, isn't it, when a Hall of Fame player has children who also find their way onto the professional field. The story of Howie Long's sons in football is really quite something, a powerful testament to talent and hard work passed down through generations.
For fans of the sport, especially those who remember Howie Long's incredible career with the Raiders, seeing his sons, Chris and Kyle, make their own marks in the NFL was, you know, a pretty cool thing. It shows that sometimes, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, particularly when it comes to athletic ability and a deep love for the game. We're talking about a family where football isn't just a pastime; it's practically a way of life, and that's just a little bit inspiring.
This article is going to take a good look at howie long's sons football journeys, exploring their individual paths, their achievements, and the very unique connection they share with their famous father. It's more or less a deep dive into how a family name can become synonymous with excellence on the gridiron, and what that means for the sport itself. So, let's get into it.
Table of Contents
- Howie Long: A Legend First
- Chris Long: The Super Bowl Champion
- Kyle Long: The Dominant Lineman
- Howie Long Jr.: The Behind-the-Scenes Player
- The Family Legacy and Influence
- Frequently Asked Questions about Howie Long's Sons Football
- Conclusion: A Lasting Impact
Howie Long: A Legend First
Before we really get into howie long's sons football careers, it's pretty important to remember the man who started it all. Howie Long himself was, in fact, a force of nature on the football field. He spent his entire illustrious NFL career with the Oakland and later Los Angeles Raiders, becoming one of the most feared defensive ends of his time. His combination of strength, speed, and relentless effort made him a nightmare for opposing offenses, truly.
He was a key part of the Raiders' Super Bowl XVIII championship team, and his individual accolades are quite extensive. Howie Long was, you know, an eight-time Pro Bowler and a two-time First-Team All-Pro. He was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000, solidifying his place among the game's true greats. That kind of background, honestly, sets a very high bar for any children looking to follow in those footsteps.
After his playing days, Howie transitioned seamlessly into a successful career as a football analyst, appearing on Fox NFL Sunday for many years. His insights and commentary have become a staple for football fans, further cementing his connection to the sport. It's clear that his passion for football extends far beyond his playing days, and that, in a way, probably influenced his sons quite a bit.
Personal Details and Bio Data
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Howard Matthew Moses Long |
| Born | January 6, 1960 (Charleston, Massachusetts) |
| Height | 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) |
| Weight | 268 lb (122 kg) |
| Position | Defensive End |
| NFL Teams | Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders (1981–1993) |
| Super Bowls | Super Bowl XVIII Champion |
| Hall of Fame | Pro Football Hall of Fame (Class of 2000) |
| Sons | Chris Long, Kyle Long, Howie Long Jr. |
Chris Long: The Super Bowl Champion
Chris Long, Howie's oldest son, carved out an absolutely remarkable career in the NFL, arguably even surpassing his father in terms of Super Bowl rings. That's a pretty big deal, you know. He played defensive end, just like his dad, and brought a similar kind of intensity and drive to the field. His journey through the league was, in fact, quite memorable, marked by both individual excellence and team success.
Early Life and College Career
Growing up with a Hall of Fame father, Chris was naturally exposed to football from a very young age. He attended St. Anne's-Belfield School in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he really started to show his potential. He was a highly recruited player and ultimately chose to play college football at the University of Virginia. There, he truly blossomed into a dominant force, becoming one of the nation's top defensive players.
During his senior year at Virginia in 2007, Chris was a consensus All-American and won the Ted Hendricks Award as the nation's best defensive end. He finished his college career with impressive stats, demonstrating his ability to consistently pressure the quarterback and make plays in the backfield. His performance made him a highly coveted prospect for the NFL Draft, and that's just a little bit of an understatement.
NFL Journey and Impact
Chris Long was selected second overall in the 2008 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams. He quickly established himself as a reliable and productive defensive end, consistently racking up sacks and quarterback pressures. He played for the Rams for eight seasons, becoming a team captain and a fan favorite. His dedication and work ethic were, you know, always evident on the field.
However, it was later in his career that Chris truly achieved team glory. After leaving the Rams, he signed with the New England Patriots for the 2016 season. With the Patriots, he won Super Bowl LI, playing a crucial role in their championship run. The very next season, he moved to the Philadelphia Eagles and, amazingly, won Super Bowl LII, becoming one of the few players to win back-to-back Super Bowls with different teams. That's a very rare feat, honestly.
Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Chris Long was also known for his character and community involvement. He donated his entire 2017 NFL salary to charity, funding educational initiatives and clean water projects. He retired after the 2018 season, leaving behind a legacy as a successful player and a truly good person. Learn more about NFL legends on our site.
Post-Football Life
Since retiring from the NFL, Chris Long has remained active in various endeavors. He hosts a popular podcast called "Green Light with Chris Long," where he discusses football, current events, and interviews a wide range of guests. He also continues his philanthropic work through the Chris Long Foundation, focusing on clean water and educational equity. He's, in a way, still making a significant impact, just in a different arena.
Kyle Long: The Dominant Lineman
Kyle Long, Howie's other prominent NFL son, took a different path than his father and older brother in terms of position, playing on the offensive line. He became a dominant offensive guard for the Chicago Bears, known for his incredible strength, athleticism, and fiery personality. His career was, you know, marked by both immense talent and some tough injury challenges, but he always played with a lot of heart.
College Path and Draft
Kyle's college journey was a bit more winding than Chris's. He initially committed to Florida State to play baseball, but eventually transitioned to football. He played at Saddleback College, a junior college, before transferring to Oregon. At Oregon, he really found his footing on the offensive line, showcasing his raw talent and potential. His athleticism for a man his size was, frankly, quite impressive, and that drew a lot of attention from NFL scouts.
Despite having less experience at the position compared to many prospects, Kyle's upside was undeniable. He was selected by the Chicago Bears with the 20th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. This was, you know, a bit of a surprise to some, but the Bears clearly saw something special in him. They were, in fact, absolutely right about his potential.
Chicago Bears Career
Kyle Long quickly became a cornerstone of the Bears' offensive line. He started every game as a rookie and was named to the Pro Bowl in his first three seasons (2013, 2014, 2015). This is, arguably, a very rare achievement for an offensive lineman, especially a rookie. He was known for his powerful run blocking and his ability to protect the quarterback. Fans and teammates alike appreciated his intensity and his willingness to play through pain.
His career, however, was unfortunately impacted by a series of injuries, including shoulder, ankle, and hip issues. These setbacks limited his playing time in later seasons, but whenever he was on the field, his impact was clear. He was a leader in the locker room and a fan favorite for his tough, physical style of play. He definitely left his mark on the Bears' organization, that's for sure.
Resilience and Retirement
Despite the injuries, Kyle Long always showed incredible resilience, often returning to play sooner than expected. He announced his retirement from the NFL in January 2020, citing the physical toll the game had taken. However, he did make a brief return in 2021, signing with the Kansas City Chiefs, but injuries again cut his season short. His commitment to the game, even through adversity, was, in some respects, truly admirable.
Since his playing days, Kyle has also ventured into media, offering his insights on football. He remains a beloved figure among Bears fans and is often seen discussing the game. He's, you know, a very engaging personality, and that translates well to broadcasting.
Howie Long Jr.: The Behind-the-Scenes Player
While Chris and Kyle made their names on the field, Howie Long Jr., the youngest of the three sons, also found a place in the football world, though in a different capacity. He didn't pursue a professional playing career, but he's very much involved in the sport from a front-office perspective. This just shows, you know, that there are many ways to be part of the game you love.
Howie Jr. has worked for the Las Vegas Raiders organization, the same team where his father became a legend. He has held various roles within the team's personnel and scouting departments, contributing to the team's operations behind the scenes. This involves a lot of work with player evaluation, draft preparation, and overall team building. It's a vital part of any successful football franchise, honestly.
His work highlights the diverse opportunities within professional sports beyond playing. It's a testament to the family's deep roots in football that all three sons have found meaningful ways to contribute to the sport. He's, in a way, carrying on the family legacy in his own unique and very important manner. You can learn more about football families and their connections to the sport on this page.
The Family Legacy and Influence
The story of howie long's sons football careers is more than just individual achievements; it's about a lasting family legacy in a sport that means so much to so many. Howie Long laid the groundwork, showing what it takes to be a Hall of Famer, both on and off the field. His sons, in turn, took those lessons and applied them to their own paths, forging their own identities while honoring their family name. It's a very compelling narrative, truly.
It's not just about the genetics, either. It's about the environment, the mentorship, and the sheer love for the game that was clearly instilled in them from a young age. Having a father who has been through the highest levels of professional football provides an invaluable resource for guidance, support, and understanding the demands of the sport. That kind of experience is, you know, priceless.
The Long family's contribution to football is, arguably, quite significant. From Howie's dominant playing days to Chris's Super Bowl triumphs and Kyle's Pro Bowl seasons, they've collectively left an indelible mark on the NFL. And with Howie Jr. working in the front office, the family's influence continues to shape the game in different ways. It's a powerful story of passion, dedication, and, frankly, a lot of talent.
Frequently Asked Questions about Howie Long's Sons Football
Here are some common questions people often ask about Howie Long's sons and their football careers:
How many of Howie Long's sons played in the NFL?
Two of Howie Long's sons, Chris Long and Kyle Long, played in the NFL. Chris was a defensive end, and Kyle was an offensive guard. Both had very successful careers, achieving Pro Bowl selections and, in Chris's case, multiple Super Bowl victories. His third son, Howie Long Jr., works in NFL front office roles.
Did Howie Long's sons win any Super Bowls?
Yes, Chris Long won two Super Bowls during his NFL career. He won Super Bowl LI with the New England Patriots in the 2016 season and then Super Bowl LII with the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2017 season. This is, in fact, a pretty unique achievement, winning back-to-back championships with different teams. Kyle Long did not win a Super Bowl during his playing career.
What teams did Howie Long's sons play for?
Chris Long played for the St. Louis Rams (2008-2015), the New England Patriots (2016), and the Philadelphia Eagles (2017-2018). Kyle Long played most of his career with the Chicago Bears (2013-2019) and had a brief return with the Kansas City Chiefs (2021). So, they definitely moved around a bit, especially Chris.
Conclusion: A Lasting Impact
The story of howie long's sons football journey is a truly compelling one, showcasing how a passion for the game can run deep within a family. From Howie Long's own legendary career to Chris's Super Bowl triumphs and Kyle's Pro Bowl dominance, the Long name has become synonymous with excellence on the gridiron. It's a clear example of how dedication, talent, and a supportive family environment can lead to remarkable achievements in professional sports. Their collective impact on the NFL is, you know, something that fans will remember for a very long time.
As we've seen, each son carved out his own distinct path, facing unique challenges and celebrating individual successes, all while carrying the weight and pride of their father's legacy. This family's story is, in a way, a powerful reminder of the enduring connections within the football community. It's pretty cool to see, honestly, how one family can contribute so much to the sport they love. For more details on Howie Long's Hall of Fame career, you can check out the Pro Football Hall of Fame website.
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