In the realm of professional football and sports broadcasting, few names resonate as strongly as Howie Long. From his dominant presence on the gridiron to his charismatic commentary in the studio, Long has carved out a remarkable career that spans decades. But just how much has this football legend amassed over his multifaceted career? Let’s dive deep into Howie Long’s net worth, exploring the journey that took him from the NFL trenches to broadcasting riches.
Early Life and College Career: Laying the Foundation
Born on January 6, 1960, in Somerville, Massachusetts, Howard Matthew Moses Long grew up in the tough neighborhoods of Charlestown, Boston. Despite the challenges of his environment, Long’s athletic prowess shone through from an early age. His journey to football stardom began at Villanova University, where he played college football and quickly made a name for himself.
At Villanova, Long’s performances were nothing short of spectacular:
- Named to the All-East team
- Earned honorable mention All-American honors
- Set school record with 84 tackles in his senior year
- Played in the Blue-Gray Football Classic and Senior Bowl
These college achievements laid the groundwork for what would become a legendary NFL career.
NFL Career with the Raiders (1981-1993): Building the Fortune
Drafted in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders, Long quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the field. His 13-year career with the Raiders (which moved to Los Angeles in 1982) was marked by numerous accolades and achievements:
- 8 Pro Bowl selections
- 3 First-team All-Pro honors
- Super Bowl XVIII champion (1984)
- Named to the NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
Long’s impact on the field was immeasurable. He perfected the defensive move known as the “rip,” which allowed him to quickly shed blockers and disrupt offensive plays. His combination of size, speed, and football IQ made him one of the most feared defensive ends of his era.
“Howie Long was not just a great player, he was a game-changer. Offenses had to account for him on every play.” – John Madden, former Raiders coach
Financial Breakdown of Long’s NFL Career
While exact salary figures from the 1980s and early 1990s are not as readily available as today’s contracts, we can estimate Long’s NFL earnings based on reports and comparisons to other top players of his era:
| Year Range | Estimated Annual Salary | Total Earnings |
| 1981-1985 | $200,000 – $500,000 | $1.5 – $2.5 million |
| 1986-1990 | $800,000 – $1.5 million | $4 – $7.5 million |
| 1991-1993 | $1.5 – $2.5 million | $4.5 – $7.5 million |
These figures, while impressive for the time, pale in comparison to modern NFL contracts. However, they formed the initial foundation of Howie Long’s net worth.
Transition to Broadcasting and Acting: Multiplying the Wealth
Long’s savvy career moves post-retirement have significantly boosted his net worth. In 1994, he seamlessly transitioned to broadcasting, joining Fox NFL Sunday as a studio analyst. This move proved to be incredibly lucrative and long-lasting:
- Over 25 years with Fox Sports
- Estimated annual salary of $4 million
- Multiple Sports Emmy Award nominations
Long’s broadcasting career has not only been financially rewarding but has also cemented his status as a respected voice in football analysis. His on-screen chemistry with colleagues like Terry Bradshaw has made him a fan favorite.
Acting Career: A Brief but Profitable Venture
In addition to broadcasting, Long dipped his toes into acting, starring in several action films in the 1990s:
- “Firestorm” (1998)
- “Broken Arrow” (1996)
- “3000 Miles to Graceland” (2001)
While not a blockbuster star, these acting gigs provided additional income streams and expanded Long’s brand beyond football.
Howie Long’s Net Worth Breakdown: The $16 Million Man
As of 2024, Howie Long’s net worth is estimated at $16 million. This impressive figure is the result of his diverse career and smart financial decisions. Let’s break down the sources of his wealth:
- NFL Salary and Bonuses: Approximately $15-20 million over his career
- Broadcasting Income: Estimated $4 million annually from Fox Sports
- Acting Revenues: Additional income from film roles
- Endorsements and Sponsorships: Various deals throughout his career
- Investments and Business Ventures: Including real estate and potential stock market investments
Endorsements: Leveraging Star Power
Long’s marketability has led to numerous endorsement deals over the years:
- Chevrolet
- Coca-Cola
- Nike
- Radio Shack
These endorsements have not only padded his bank account but have also kept him in the public eye long after his playing days.
Real Estate Holdings: Smart Investments
A significant portion of Long’s wealth is likely tied up in real estate. While specific details of his properties are not publicly disclosed, it’s known that:
- He owns a primary residence in Virginia
- Likely has invested in other properties given his financial acumen
Real estate investments often form a substantial part of athletes’ portfolios, providing both appreciation and potential rental income.
Family and Legacy: The Long Dynasty
Howie Long’s impact extends beyond his personal achievements to his family:
- Married to Diane Addonizio since 1982
- Father to three sons, two of whom followed in his NFL footsteps:
- Chris Long: Retired NFL player, two-time Super Bowl champion
- Kyle Long: Former NFL player, three-time Pro Bowler
- Howie Long Jr.: Works in player personnel for the Raiders
The success of Chris and Kyle Long has not only added to the family’s legacy but likely to their combined net worth as well. The Long family represents a true football dynasty.
Philanthropic Efforts: Giving Back
While building his fortune, Long has not forgotten the importance of giving back. He’s been involved in various charitable causes, including:
- The Boys and Girls Clubs of America
- Numerous NFL-related charities
While philanthropy may not directly contribute to net worth, it speaks to Long’s character and the positive impact he strives to make beyond the football field.
Howie Long’s Financial Wisdom
Long’s transition from player to successful broadcaster and businessman offers valuable lessons:
- Diversify Your Income Streams: Long didn’t rely solely on his NFL earnings.
- Leverage Your Expertise: He used his football knowledge to build a broadcasting career.
- Build a Strong Personal Brand: Long’s likability and expertise made him marketable post-retirement.
- Invest Wisely: While details of his investments are private, his sustained wealth suggests smart financial decisions.
“The key is to find what you’re passionate about after football and pursue it with the same intensity you had as a player.” – Howie Long
Long has even shared financial advice with current players like Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, emphasizing the importance of planning for life after football.
Comparing Howie Long’s Net Worth
To put Long’s $16 million net worth in perspective, let’s compare it to other NFL Hall of Famers and broadcasters:
| Name | Primary Career | Estimated Net Worth |
| Howie Long | NFL Player/Broadcaster | $16 million |
| Terry Bradshaw | NFL Player/Broadcaster | $45 million |
| Michael Strahan | NFL Player/TV Host | $65 million |
| Tony Romo | NFL Player/Broadcaster | $70 million |
| John Madden | Coach/Broadcaster | $200 million (at time of passing) |
While Long’s net worth may seem modest compared to some of his contemporaries, it’s important to note:
- He played in an era with significantly lower salaries
- He’s maintained a stable, long-term broadcasting career rather than pursuing higher-risk, higher-reward ventures
- His focus on family and balanced lifestyle may prioritize stability over maximum wealth accumulation
Future Projections: Sustaining Success
At 64 years old, Howie Long shows no signs of slowing down. His continued presence on Fox NFL Sunday and potential future endeavors suggest his net worth could continue to grow:
- Potential for increased broadcasting salary
- Possible book deals or speaking engagements
- Continued smart investments
While he may not reach the astronomical net worth figures of some modern NFL stars, Long’s financial future seems secure and prosperous.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Success On and Off the Field
Howie Long’s net worth of $16 million is a testament to his success both on and off the football field. From his dominant NFL career with the Raiders to his enduring presence as a Fox Sports analyst, Long has consistently leveraged his talents and opportunities.
His journey from Somerville, Massachusetts to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and beyond serves as an inspiration and blueprint for aspiring athletes. Long’s career demonstrates that with talent, hard work, and smart decision-making, it’s possible to build lasting success and financial stability in the volatile world of professional sports.
As we watch Long continue to share his insights on Fox NFL Sunday, we’re not just seeing a former player – we’re witnessing a man who has masterfully navigated the transition from sport to business, building a legacy that extends far beyond the gridiron.
Bio Writings, founded by Oscar Wyatt, is a blog dedicated to helping readers craft compelling, personalized biographies. Whether you need a professional bio, personal story, or creative writing tips, Oscar’s engaging content helps you showcase your unique journey with style and clarity.
