How Old Is Howie Long? Discovering The Legendary Player's Age And Career
Have you ever wondered about the age of those iconic figures who have graced our sports screens for years? It's a natural curiosity, isn't it, to think about how much time has passed since they first made their mark? When we see someone like Howie Long, a name so often linked with powerful plays on the field and sharp commentary off it, a thought that often pops up is, "Just how old is Howie Long, anyway?" It's a simple question, yet it helps us place his incredible journey in perspective, seeing how many years he's dedicated to American football and beyond. So, we're going to talk about his age and what that means for his storied life.
Knowing how old someone like Howie Long is can, you know, really give you a sense of his long career. He’s someone who has been a big part of the football world for a very, very long time. From his playing days that led him to the Hall of Fame, to his continued presence as a voice we trust in sports, his age tells a story of enduring success. It's almost like a timeline for his remarkable achievements and how he has stayed relevant through different eras of the game.
This look at Howie Long’s age isn't just about a number, though. It's about understanding the context of his many accomplishments. When you consider his age, you can, in a way, appreciate the physical demands of his playing career and the mental sharpness needed for his broadcasting work. It helps us evaluate his performance within the context of his career stages, seeing how he’s adapted and continued to contribute.
Table of Contents
- Howie Long: Biography and Early Life
- A Dominant Force on the Field
- Life After the Gridiron
- Howie Long's Family Legacy
- Frequently Asked Questions About Howie Long
Howie Long: Biography and Early Life
Howard Matthew Moses Long, who we all know as Howie Long, was born on January 6, 1960. He came into the world in Charlestown, Massachusetts, which is a place with a lot of history, too. Some records also mention Somerville, Massachusetts, or Boston, MA, as his birthplace, but the key detail is that he's a true New England native. This birth date, January 6, 1960, is really the starting point for figuring out his age.
So, if Howie Long was born on January 6, 1960, then as of the current year, 2024, he is 64 years old. It's pretty straightforward when you look at the calendar, you know? Interestingly, some information from 2022 noted him at 62 years old, which was accurate for that time. Other mentions have placed his age at 65, which would be true as of January 2025. This shows how a person's age naturally changes each year on their birthday, so the most precise answer depends on the exact date you're asking.
Personal Details and Bio Data
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Howard Matthew Moses Long |
| Known As | Howie Long |
| Date of Birth | January 6, 1960 |
| Current Age (as of 2024) | 64 years old |
| Birthplace | Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA (also Somerville, Boston, MA) |
| Birth Sign | Capricorn |
| Nationality | American |
| Spouse | Diane Addonizio (married June 27, 1982) |
| Children | Chris Long, Kyle Long, Howie Long Jr. |
| College | Villanova University |
| Degree | Communications |
| Primary Profession | Former American Football Player, Sportscaster, Actor, Writer |
| NFL Teams | Oakland / Los Angeles Raiders |
| Notable Achievements | Super Bowl XVIII Champion, Pro Football Hall of Fame |
The College Years
Before he became a household name in the NFL, Howie Long honed his skills at the college level. He played football for the Villanova Wildcats, a team located near Philadelphia. This period was, in a way, foundational for his future success. It was there that he began to really show his abilities as a defensive player, setting the stage for what was to come.
While playing college football, Howie Long also pursued his academic interests. He earned a degree in communications, which is, you know, pretty fitting considering his later career as a sportscaster. This academic background, combined with his athletic prowess, gave him a solid base for his diverse career path. It shows he was thinking about more than just the game even back then.
A Dominant Force on the Field
Howie Long made his significant impact as an American football player, primarily with the Oakland and later Los Angeles Raiders. He was, quite frankly, a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line. His style of play was very aggressive and powerful, making him a true challenge for opposing offenses. He had a way of getting to the quarterback that was, honestly, just exceptional.
His time with the Raiders cemented his reputation as one of the best defensive ends of his generation. Players like him are, you know, the kind that coaches dream of having on their team. He brought a certain intensity to every game, and his presence on the field was always felt, often disrupting plays and creating opportunities for his teammates.
Super Bowl Glory
One of the crowning achievements of Howie Long's playing career came in 1984. That year, he was a key part of the Los Angeles Raiders team that won Super Bowl XVIII. This victory was a huge moment, not just for him, but for the entire organization. It's the kind of accomplishment that, you know, every football player dreams of achieving.
Being a Super Bowl champion is a special status in the NFL, and Howie Long's contribution to that team's success was, arguably, immense. He played a crucial role in their dominant defense, helping them secure that championship title. It really highlights his skill and dedication during his playing days.
Career Statistics and Recognition
Howie Long's statistics speak volumes about his effectiveness as a defensive player. Throughout his career, he recorded an impressive 91.5 sacks. That number is, you know, a very strong indicator of his ability to pressure quarterbacks and make big plays behind the line of scrimmage. It’s a testament to his consistent performance over many seasons.
His outstanding play didn't go unnoticed. After his retirement from playing, Howie Long was recognized for his immense contributions to the sport by being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This honor is, basically, the highest recognition a professional football player can receive, placing him among the true legends of the game. You can learn more about the Pro Football Hall of Fame here.
Life After the Gridiron
Even after hanging up his cleats, Howie Long remained a prominent figure in the public eye. His post-football career has been, you know, surprisingly varied and successful. He didn't just fade away; he found new ways to connect with fans and showcase his talents. It really speaks to his versatility and charisma beyond the football field.
His transition from player to public personality was, in a way, quite smooth. Many athletes find it tough to adjust to life after professional sports, but Howie Long seemed to find his footing pretty quickly. He found new avenues where his communication degree and his football experience could shine.
A Voice in Sports Broadcasting
One of Howie Long's most recognizable roles after his playing days has been as an NFL sportscaster. He became a familiar face and voice on television, offering his insights and analysis of games. His experience as a Hall of Fame defensive end gave him, you know, a unique perspective that viewers really appreciated.
His commentary is often seen as very insightful and, honestly, quite direct. He has a way of explaining complex football concepts that makes them easy for fans to grasp. This role has allowed him to stay connected to the game he loves while sharing his vast knowledge with a wider audience. Learn more about football history on our site.
Making a Mark in Hollywood
Beyond sports broadcasting, Howie Long also ventured into the world of acting and writing. This was, you know, a bit of a different path for a former football player, but he managed to make a notable impact. He showed that his talents extended beyond the football field and the broadcast booth.
He is known for his roles in several films. These include "Broken Arrow" from 1996, "3000 Miles to Graceland" released in 2001, and "Firestorm" from 1998. These appearances demonstrate his willingness to explore different creative avenues and, basically, try new things after his football career. It's quite a diverse resume, really.
Howie Long's Family Legacy
Howie Long's personal life is also quite interesting, particularly his family. He has been married to Diane Addonizio since June 27, 1982. Their long marriage is, you know, a pretty significant part of his story, showing stability amidst a very public career. They have built a strong family together over the years.
The Long family has, in a way, become a football dynasty of sorts. Howie and Diane have three sons, and two of them followed their father's footsteps into the NFL. Chris Long, born in Santa Monica, California, became a former NFL defensive end, just like his dad. Kyle Long, his younger brother, also played in the NFL as an offensive guard.
Then there's the youngest son, Howie Long Jr. He also works in the football world, currently serving as a player personnel for the Raiders organization. So, the family's connection to professional football is, basically, very deep and continues across generations. It's pretty cool to see that kind of legacy. You can find more details about famous sports families on this page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Howie Long
When was Howie Long born?
Howie Long was born on January 6, 1960. This date is, you know, very clearly established across various records. It means he celebrates his birthday early in the new year.
How old is Howie Long currently?
As of 2024, Howie Long is 64 years old. His age, you know, changes each year on January 6th. Information from 2022 noted him at 62, and some references have placed him at 65, which would be his age starting in January 2025.
What is Howie Long known for besides football?
Beyond his incredible football career, Howie Long is also widely recognized as an NFL sportscaster. He's also, you know, an actor and a writer, having appeared in films like "Broken Arrow," "3000 Miles to Graceland," and "Firestorm."
Old Man Portrait Image & Photo (Free Trial) | Bigstock
Portrait Of An Old Woman Is Looking Into The Camera Background, Picture
Very Old Age
