Howie Long: From NFL Legend to Broadcasting Icon, a Journey of Dedication and Heart

Before the cameras roll on “Fox NFL Sunday,” Howie Long can often be spotted deeply engrossed in his notes, the very embodiment of meticulous preparation. Colleagues on the set have come to accept this as one of Long’s quirks; he writes everything down, even if he uses less than 10 percent of it. "It's the way I've always done things," he explained. "Everybody's got their little quirks, and those are mine." It's this unwavering attention to detail that has defined Long's storied career. Drafted in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft from Villanova, Long transformed himself into a Pro Football Hall of Fame defensive lineman with the Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders. His same focus and dedication to preparation have seamlessly transitioned into his broadcasting career, where he has been a key figure at Fox for over 30 years. Long's colleagues, while often teasing him for his seriousness and extensive notes, are also quick to express their admiration. "Everything that Howie does, he is extremely thorough," noted Jimmy Johnson. Whether it’s preparing for the show or offering guidance to his sons, Long’s commitment to being prepared is legendary. His colleagues respect his work ethic and genuine character, attributes that extend far beyond the football field. Outside of his professional life, Long’s values as a family man shine through. He has built a strong family foundation with his wife, Diane, whom he met at Villanova, and their three sons—two of whom have played in the NFL. Long’s devotion to family is palpable, and he is known to FaceTime from the set to share moments with his grandchildren or show off their photos. Michael Strahan humorously remarked, "You talk about his family, you're on your own," highlighting the deep-seated protection Long has for his loved ones. The roots of Long's integrity can be traced back to his grandmother, who instilled in him the importance of treating everyone equally—a lesson he carries with him to this day. His upbringing in Boston during the desegregation era further shaped his character and values. Long’s journey from a celebrated athlete to a beloved broadcaster wasn’t without its challenges. When he first auditioned for Fox, he came armed with an overwhelming amount of notes, leading to what Terry Bradshaw called “information overload.” However, a pep talk from Bradshaw encouraged him to relax and connect more naturally, paving the way for his successful partnership on air. While Long is often the target of friendly banter among his Fox colleagues, such as Jay Glazer poking fun at his tiny handwriting, it's evident that the camaraderie runs deep. “Howie might be the best human being I know,” said Bill Richards, the executive producer of “Fox NFL Sunday.” “It's just who he is, 24/7, and he's not 1 percent fake.” Long’s no-nonsense persona has made him a respected figure not just for his football insights but also for his kindness and humanity. He has been a confidant to Bradshaw during difficult times, including Bradshaw’s cancer diagnosis, showcasing the depth of their friendship. As Long approaches the final year of his current contract with Fox, he reflects on the relationships he has built and the camaraderie of his colleagues who have become like family. “Howie is the grown-up in the room that makes sure we have respectability,” Richards added. In an industry often characterized by fleeting moments and superficial connections, Howie Long stands out as a figure of reliability and depth. With his trademark flattop haircut and a notebook always in hand, he continues to embrace the importance of dedication, family, and friendship—all while reminding us that beneath the surface of sports lies a narrative rich with humanity. Long’s journey is a testament to the power of preparation, humility, and genuine connection in both life and sport.