The Legendary Howie Long: Raiders Icon And NFL Star

The Legendary Howie Long: Raiders Icon And NFL Star

Who is Howie Long, and why is he significant in the world of American football?

Howie Long is a former American football player who spent his entire 13-season career with the Los Angeles Raiders of the National Football League (NFL). He played defensive end and was a key member of the Raiders' "Silver and Black" teams of the 1980s, which won two Super Bowls.

Long was born in Boston, Massachusetts, and played college football at Villanova University. He was drafted by the Raiders in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft. Long quickly became a starter for the Raiders and was named to the Pro Bowl eight times during his career. He was also named an All-Pro seven times and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000.

Name Born Position Teams Hall of Fame
Howie Long January 6, 1960 Defensive end Los Angeles Raiders 2000

Long was a dominant pass rusher and was known for his strength and athleticism. He was also a vocal leader on the Raiders' defense. Long retired from the NFL after the 1993 season and has since worked as a sports commentator and actor.

Howie Long's Impact on the Raiders

Howie Long was a key member of the Raiders' "Silver and Black" teams of the 1980s, which won two Super Bowls. He was a dominant pass rusher and was known for his strength and athleticism. Long was also a vocal leader on the Raiders' defense.

Long's impact on the Raiders was significant. He was a key member of the team's defense, which was one of the best in the NFL during the 1980s. Long's pass rushing skills helped the Raiders to generate turnovers and create scoring opportunities for the offense. He was also a vocal leader on the defense, and his presence helped to motivate his teammates.

Long's contributions to the Raiders were recognized in 2000, when he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He is considered one of the greatest Raiders of all time, and his impact on the team is still felt today.

Howie Long's Legacy

Howie Long is considered one of the greatest Raiders of all time. He was a dominant pass rusher and was known for his strength and athleticism. Long was also a vocal leader on the Raiders' defense. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000.

Long's legacy is one of excellence and leadership. He was a key member of the Raiders' "Silver and Black" teams of the 1980s, which won two Super Bowls. Long's pass rushing skills helped the Raiders to generate turnovers and create scoring opportunities for the offense. He was also a vocal leader on the defense, and his presence helped to motivate his teammates.

Long's legacy is also one of giving back to the community. He is the founder of the Howie Long Foundation, which provides support to children and families in need. Long is also a strong advocate for education and has worked to improve educational opportunities for children in underserved communities.

Howie Long is a true American hero. He is a role model for young people and an inspiration to all who know him. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Howie Long

Howie Long, a former defensive end for the Los Angeles Raiders, left an indelible mark on the NFL. His exceptional skills and leadership qualities made him a cornerstone of the Raiders' success in the 1980s. Here are seven key aspects that highlight his legacy with the Raiders:

  • Fearsome Pass Rusher: Long possessed an uncanny ability to sack quarterbacks, terrorizing opposing offenses.
  • Relentless Competitor: Known for his unwavering determination and intensity on the field, he inspired his teammates.
  • Key Defensive Leader: Long's leadership and communication skills played a pivotal role in the Raiders' defensive success.
  • Super Bowl Champion: He was a vital member of the Raiders' two Super Bowl victories in 1984 and 1989.
  • Pro Football Hall of Famer: Long's exceptional career earned him induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
  • All-Pro Selection: He received seven All-Pro selections, a testament to his consistent excellence.
  • Raiders Ring of Honor: His contributions to the Raiders were recognized with his induction into the team's Ring of Honor.

These key aspects paint a vivid picture of Howie Long's impact on the Raiders. His exceptional pass rushing abilities, coupled with his leadership and competitive spirit, made him a formidable force on the field. As a key member of the Raiders' championship teams, he played a pivotal role in their success. Long's legacy as a Raiders legend is cemented by his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the team's Ring of Honor. His contributions to the Raiders and the sport of football continue to inspire and motivate generations of players and fans.

Name Born Position Teams Hall of Fame
Howie Long January 6, 1960 Defensive end Los Angeles Raiders 2000

Fearsome Pass Rusher

Howie Long's exceptional pass rushing abilities were a cornerstone of the Raiders' defensive dominance in the 1980s. His relentless pursuit and knack for sacking quarterbacks instilled fear in opposing offenses, disrupting their game plans and generating turnovers.

  • Master of the Bull Rush: Long's signature move was the bull rush, where he used his immense strength and leverage to overpower offensive linemen and reach the quarterback.
  • Expert at Reading Blocking Schemes: Long's exceptional football IQ allowed him to anticipate and react to blocking schemes, finding gaps to exploit and pressure the quarterback.
  • Relentless Motor: Long's relentless motor and stamina enabled him to maintain a high level of intensity throughout the game, consistently applying pressure on the quarterback.
  • Impact on Raiders' Success: Long's pass rushing prowess was a key factor in the Raiders' defensive success. His ability to generate turnovers and disrupt opposing offenses contributed significantly to the team's two Super Bowl victories.

Howie Long's fearsome pass rushing abilities made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks and a valuable asset to the Raiders' defense. His exceptional skills and relentless determination were instrumental in the team's success and solidified his legacy as one of the greatest pass rushers in NFL history.

Relentless Competitor

Howie Long's unwavering determination and intensity on the field were infectious, inspiring his teammates to perform at their best. His relentless competitive spirit was a driving force behind the Raiders' success in the 1980s.

  • Vocal Leader: Long was a vocal leader on the Raiders' defense, constantly motivating and encouraging his teammates. He led by example, demonstrating the intensity and focus required to succeed at the highest level.
  • Unwavering Determination: Long never gave up, no matter the odds. He played with a relentless determination that pushed himself and his teammates to achieve greatness.
  • Team-First Mentality: Long put the team's success above his own personal accolades. He was willing to do whatever it took to help the Raiders win, even if it meant sacrificing his own stats or glory.
  • Positive Influence: Long's positive attitude and infectious enthusiasm had a profound impact on his teammates. He created a culture of camaraderie and accountability, where everyone was striving for excellence.

Howie Long's relentless competitive spirit was a key ingredient in the Raiders' success. He inspired his teammates to play with the same intensity and determination, creating a winning mentality that carried the team to two Super Bowl victories.

Key Defensive Leader

Howie Long's leadership and communication skills were instrumental in the Raiders' defensive success during the 1980s. As a defensive captain, he was responsible for relaying play calls, organizing the defense, and motivating his teammates. Long's ability to communicate effectively and command respect from his fellow players was crucial to the Raiders' defensive dominance.

Long's leadership extended beyond the field. He was a vocal advocate for his teammates, both on and off the field. He often spoke out against injustice and inequality, using his platform to raise awareness and inspire change. His commitment to social justice further solidified his status as a leader and role model within the Raiders organization and the NFL community.

The impact of Long's leadership and communication skills can be seen in the Raiders' defensive statistics during his tenure. The Raiders consistently ranked among the top defenses in the NFL, allowing the fewest points and yards per game. Long's ability to organize and motivate his teammates played a significant role in the Raiders' defensive success, which was a key factor in the team's two Super Bowl victories.

Super Bowl Champion

Howie Long was a vital member of the Los Angeles Raiders teams that won Super Bowls XVIII and XXIII. In Super Bowl XVIII, the Raiders defeated the Washington Redskins 38-9, and Long recorded two sacks and forced a fumble. In Super Bowl XXIII, the Raiders defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 20-16, and Long had one sack and three tackles for a loss.

Long's contributions to the Raiders' Super Bowl victories were significant. He was a dominant pass rusher who could disrupt the opposing team's offense and force turnovers. He was also a strong run defender who could help to stop the run and keep the Raiders' defense off the field.

Long's success as a Super Bowl champion is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the game of football. He was a key member of two of the most successful teams in NFL history, and he played a major role in their victories.

Pro Football Hall of Famer

Howie Long's induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a testament to his exceptional career with the Raiders. He was one of the most dominant defensive players of his era, and his contributions to the Raiders' success were significant.

  • Recognition of Excellence: The Pro Football Hall of Fame is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a football player. Long's induction into the Hall of Fame is a recognition of his exceptional talent and achievements on the field.
  • Inspiration to Others: Long's success story is an inspiration to young athletes and football players everywhere. He shows that hard work, dedication, and perseverance can lead to great things.
  • Legacy of the Raiders: Long's induction into the Hall of Fame is a reflection of the Raiders' rich history and tradition. He is one of many great players who have played for the Raiders over the years.
  • Symbol of Success: Long's Hall of Fame induction is a symbol of the Raiders' success in the 1980s. He was a key member of the team's two Super Bowl victories, and his contributions helped to establish the Raiders as one of the most dominant teams in the NFL.

Long's induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to his exceptional career with the Raiders. He is one of the greatest players in NFL history, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of football players and fans.

All-Pro Selection

Howie Long's seven All-Pro selections are a testament to his consistent excellence as a defensive end for the Los Angeles Raiders. An All-Pro selection is awarded to the best players at each position in the NFL, as voted on by a panel of experts. Long's seven All-Pro selections are a reflection of his outstanding performance and dominance on the field.

Long's All-Pro selections were earned through his exceptional pass rushing abilities and his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. He was a relentless pass rusher who could generate pressure on the quarterback and force turnovers. He was also a strong run defender who could stop the run and keep the Raiders' defense off the field.

Long's All-Pro selections were a key component of the Raiders' success in the 1980s. He was a key member of the Raiders' two Super Bowl victories, and his contributions helped to establish the Raiders as one of the most dominant teams in the NFL.

Long's All-Pro selections are a testament to his hard work, dedication, and perseverance. He is one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, and his All-Pro selections are a reflection of his exceptional talent and achievements on the field.

Raiders Ring of Honor

Howie Long's induction into the Raiders Ring of Honor is a testament to his exceptional career with the team. The Ring of Honor is the highest honor that the Raiders can bestow upon a player, and it is reserved for those who have made significant contributions to the team's success.

Long's induction into the Ring of Honor is a reflection of his outstanding performance on the field, as well as his leadership and dedication to the Raiders organization. He was a key member of the Raiders' two Super Bowl victories, and his contributions helped to establish the Raiders as one of the most dominant teams in the NFL.

Long's induction into the Ring of Honor is a fitting tribute to his exceptional career with the Raiders. He is one of the greatest players in Raiders history, and his contributions to the team will never be forgotten.

FAQs on Howie Long, Raiders Legend

This section addresses frequently asked questions about Howie Long, the legendary defensive end for the Los Angeles Raiders.

Question 1: What were Howie Long's key contributions to the Raiders' success?


Howie Long was a dominant pass rusher and a key member of the Raiders' defense during their heyday in the 1980s. His relentless pursuit of the quarterback, exceptional pass rushing abilities, and leadership qualities were instrumental in the Raiders' two Super Bowl victories. Long's ability to disrupt opposing offenses and generate turnovers was a major factor in the team's success.

Question 2: Why is Howie Long considered a Raiders legend?


Howie Long is considered a Raiders legend due to his exceptional contributions to the team both on and off the field. As a player, he was a seven-time All-Pro selection and a key member of the Raiders' two Super Bowl victories. Long's leadership, determination, and relentless competitive spirit inspired his teammates and played a significant role in the team's success. Off the field, Long has been a dedicated supporter of the Raiders organization and a positive role model for young athletes and fans.

Summary: Howie Long's exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and leadership qualities made him a cornerstone of the Raiders' success in the 1980s. His contributions to the team, both on and off the field, have cemented his legacy as a Raiders legend and an inspiration to generations of football players and fans.

Conclusion

Howie Long's exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and leadership qualities made him a cornerstone of the Raiders' success in the 1980s. His contributions to the team, both on and off the field, have cemented his legacy as a Raiders legend and an inspiration to generations of football players and fans.

Long's relentless pursuit of excellence and his unwavering commitment to the Raiders organization serve as a reminder of the importance of hard work, dedication, and teamwork. His legacy continues to inspire young athletes and fans alike, encouraging them to strive for greatness and to make a positive impact on their communities.

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