Howie Long is a former National Football League defensive end turned respected film and television actor. This Howie Long bio explores his disciplined athletic career, his steady transition into entertainment, and the reputation he built along the way.
Long’s combination of on field performance and off screen professionalism has made him a recognizable name in both sports and entertainment. The following overview highlights key milestones, personal details, and the qualities that define his public persona.
| Full Name | Howie Long |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 6, 1960 |
| Birthplace | Somerville, New Jersey, United States |
| Height | 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m) |
| Weight | 285 lb (129 kg) |
| College | Villanova University |
| NFL Teams | Los Angeles / Oakland Raiders |
| Years Active | Football: 1981–1993; Acting: 1990s–present |
Howie Long Early Football Years
Long grew up in New Jersey, where his size and athleticism became evident on the high school football field. His combination of strength and technique helped him earn a scholarship to Villanova University and later set the stage for a professional career.
At Villanova, he refined his defensive skills and developed the fundamentals that would translate into a successful NFL run. Coaches noted his work ethic and football IQ, qualities that carried through every phase of his playing days.
NFL Career and Achievements
Howie Long spent most of his career with the Los Angeles / Oakland Raiders, where he became known as a disruptive defensive end. His play helped anchor a defense that frequently ranked among the league’s best units during the 1980s.
- Selected in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Raiders
- Named to the Pro Bowl twice, recognizing elite performance at his position
- Earned All-Pro honors multiple times for consistent, impactful play
- Key contributor on a Raiders defense known for toughness and versatility
Acting Career and On Screen Roles
Transition from Football to Film
After retiring from football, Howie Long leveraged his imposing presence and authoritative voice to build a steady acting career. He began appearing in movies and television during the 1990s, often cast as law enforcement, military, or tough guy characters.
Notable Films and Television Appearations
Long has appeared in major productions such as Eliminators, Firestorm, and the long running police drama The District. His roles typically highlight his commanding screen presence and no nonsense demeanor.
Personal Life and Public Image
Off screen, Howie Long is known as a family oriented individual who values privacy and discipline. He has been married to his wife Diane for several decades, and their children have largely stayed out of the public eye.
He built a reputation for professionalism in every arena, whether discussing football strategy on studio coverage or performing action sequences on screen. This consistency contributes to his enduring public image.
Final Career Perspective
Howie Long’s journey from a standout college defensive lineman to a reliable actor demonstrates versatility and long term professionalism.
- Established elite level football credentials as a Pro Bowl defensive end
- Transitioned smoothly into acting with a recognizable on screen presence
- Maintained a durable public image grounded in discipline and consistency
- Balanced family life with high profile career demands
- Continued to contribute to sports commentary and entertainment projects over decades
FAQ
Reader questions
How tall is Howie Long and what was his playing weight?
Howie Long stands 6 ft 7 in tall and played at a weight of around 285 lb during his NFL career.
Which NFL teams did Howie Long play for?
He spent the majority of his career with the Los Angeles / Oakland Raiders.
Did Howie Long earn any major individual honors during his football career?
Yes, he was selected to the Pro Bowl twice and earned multiple All-Pro selections.
What types of roles is Howie Long best known for in acting?
He is best known for playing authoritative characters such as law enforcement officers, military figures, and tough guys in film and television.