Who Did Howie Long Play Football For? | NFL Career Revealed

By Sarah Miller · July 31, 2049

Howie Long played professional football for the Los Angeles Raiders in the NFL, where he spent his entire 13-season career from 1981 to 1993.

Howie Long's NFL Career Overview

A dominant defensive end, Howie Long was a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Raiders' defense throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. Drafted in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft, Long quickly established himself as one of the league's premier pass rushers and run defenders.

Key Highlights of Howie Long's Playing Years

Played exclusively for the Raiders (Oakland/Los Angeles)
1985 NFL Defensive Player of the Year
8-time Pro Bowl selection
2-time First-Team All-Pro
Super Bowl XVIII Champion
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000

Raiders Tenure: From Oakland to Los Angeles

Although drafted when the team was based in Oakland, Long played during the franchise's move to Los Angeles in 1982. He remained with the team through its time in Southern California and retired before the Raiders returned to Oakland in 1995.

Why Long Stayed With One Team

Long's loyalty and consistency were rare in professional sports. Injuries shortened his peak, but he maintained elite performance levels well into his 30s. His leadership on and off the field made him a franchise icon.

Season	Team	Games Played	Sacks	Interceptions	Fumble Recoveries
1981	Oakland Raiders	16	4.0	1	2
1983	Los Angeles Raiders	16	10.0	0	1
1985	Los Angeles Raiders	16	11.5	1	2
1987	Los Angeles Raiders	15	10.0	0	1
1990	Los Angeles Raiders	16	9.0	0	1
1993	Los Angeles Raiders	14	7.0	0	0

Table data source:1, 2

The table shows Howie Long's consistent production over key seasons. Despite playing in an era with less emphasis on sack statistics, Long recorded double-digit sack totals multiple times. His durability and impact are evident in his near-perfect attendance and continued effectiveness into his final seasons.

Legacy and Post-NFL Career

After retiring in 1993, Howie Long transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a prominent analyst for Fox Sports. His son, Kyle Long, also followed in his footsteps, playing in the NFL for the Chicago Bears and other teams.

Long's number has not been officially retired by the Raiders, but he remains one of the most respected figures in franchise history. His combination of strength, speed, and intelligence redefined the role of a defensive end during his era.