Howie Long's Sons In The NFL: A Family Of Football Excellence

Howie Long, the Hall of Fame defensive end and legendary NFL broadcaster, is not only celebrated for his own gridiron glory but also for raising two sons who have made their mark in the NFL. His sons, Chris and Kyle Long, have carried forward their father’s football legacy with pride, establishing themselves as standout athletes in their respective careers. The Long family’s connection to the NFL is nothing short of remarkable, as it spans generations while showcasing their talent, determination, and love for the game.

The story of Howie Long’s sons in the NFL is one of hard work, resilience, and shared passion for football. Chris Long, the elder son, made a name for himself as a defensive end, earning multiple accolades, including two Super Bowl championships. Meanwhile, Kyle Long thrived as an offensive lineman, earning Pro Bowl honors during his career. Both sons have demonstrated not just athletic excellence but also a commitment to leadership and philanthropy, embodying the values instilled in them by their father.

As we delve deeper into the lives and careers of Chris and Kyle Long, we’ll explore their upbringing, achievements, and the unique bond they share with their father. From their early days learning the fundamentals of the game to their standout performances in the NFL, this article sheds light on how the Long family has become a household name in football. Join us as we take an in-depth look at Howie Long’s sons in the NFL and celebrate their contributions to the sport.

Table of Contents

• Howie Long: Biography and Early Life
• Who is Chris Long?
• Chris Long’s NFL Career: A Journey of Success
• What Awards and Achievements Has Chris Long Earned?
• Who is Kyle Long?
• Kyle Long’s NFL Career: A Force on the Offensive Line
• What Makes Kyle Long’s Career Stand Out?
• How Did Howie Long Influence His Sons’ Success?
• The Long Family’s Commitment to Giving Back
• What is the Bond Between Chris and Kyle Like?
• The Long Family Legacy in the NFL
• What Does the Future Hold for the Long Family in Football?
• Frequently Asked Questions About Howie Long's Sons in the NFL
• Conclusion

Howie Long: Biography and Early Life

To understand the incredible careers of Chris and Kyle Long, it’s essential to start with the man who inspired them: Howie Long. Born on January 6, 1960, in Charlestown, Massachusetts, Howie Long grew up with a passion for sports. He attended Villanova University, where he showcased his talent as a defensive end, eventually being drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft.

During his 13-season career with the Raiders, Long became one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history. Known for his strength, speed, and versatility, he earned eight Pro Bowl selections, three first-team All-Pro honors, and was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1985. In 2000, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing his status as one of the all-time greats.

Personal Details

Who is Chris Long?

Chris Long, Howie Long’s eldest son, was born on March 28, 1985, in Santa Monica, California. Following in his father’s footsteps, Chris developed a love for football at an early age. Standing 6’3” and weighing 270 pounds during his playing days, Chris possessed the ideal physique and athleticism to excel as a defensive end.

Chris attended the University of Virginia, where he became one of college football’s most dominant defensive players. As a senior, he won the Ted Hendricks Award, given to the nation’s top defensive end, and was a unanimous All-American. His stellar college career led to him being selected second overall by the St. Louis Rams in the 2008 NFL Draft.

Chris Long’s NFL Career: A Journey of Success

Chris Long’s NFL journey spanned over a decade, during which he played for the St. Louis Rams, New England Patriots, and Philadelphia Eagles. Known for his relentless work ethic and leadership on and off the field, Chris made significant contributions to each team he played for.

1. St. Louis Rams (2008–2015): Chris spent the majority of his career with the Rams, where he was a consistent force on their defensive line. He recorded multiple double-digit sack seasons and was a team leader.
2. New England Patriots (2016): In 2016, Chris joined the Patriots and helped them win Super Bowl LI in a dramatic comeback victory over the Atlanta Falcons.
3. Philadelphia Eagles (2017–2018): Chris played a pivotal role in the Eagles’ historic Super Bowl LII win, where they defeated the Patriots. His contributions earned him the NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in 2018 for his philanthropic efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Howie Long's Sons in the NFL

1. Are both of Howie Long’s sons retired from the NFL? Yes, both Chris and Kyle Long have retired from professional football as of now.
2. Did Chris Long win any Super Bowls? Yes, Chris Long won two Super Bowls—one with the New England Patriots (Super Bowl LI) and one with the Philadelphia Eagles (Super Bowl LII).
3. What position did Kyle Long play in the NFL? Kyle Long played as an offensive guard during his NFL career.
4. How many Pro Bowls did Kyle Long make? Kyle Long was selected to the Pro Bowl three times during his career.
5. Did Howie Long influence his sons’ football careers? Absolutely, Howie Long was a major influence in shaping Chris and Kyle’s passion for football and their strong work ethic.
6. What philanthropic efforts are the Long family involved in? The Long family is deeply involved in various charitable activities, including Chris Long’s Waterboys initiative, which focuses on providing clean water to communities in need.

Conclusion

The Long family’s story is one of inspiration, determination, and unwavering love for football. From Howie Long’s Hall of Fame career to the remarkable achievements of Chris and Kyle Long, this family has left an indelible mark on the NFL. Not only have they excelled on the field, but they’ve also used their platform to make a positive impact on society. The legacy of Howie Long’s sons in the NFL is a testament to the values of hard work, resilience, and giving back. As fans, we can only look forward to what the future holds for this extraordinary football family.