Howie Long's Son NFL: A Legacy In The Making

The world of professional football often intertwines legacies, and one such prominent legacy is that of Howie Long and his son, Chris Long. As a celebrated NFL player and Hall of Famer, Howie Long has set a high bar for success in the sport. Today, we explore Chris Long's journey in the NFL, his achievements, and how he has carved out his own identity in the shadow of his father's illustrious career.

Chris Long, born on March 28, 1985, in Santa Monica, California, has not only followed in his father's footsteps but has also made a name for himself in the NFL. With an impressive career that includes two Super Bowl victories, Chris has proven himself as a valuable player in the league. This article delves into his career highlights, personal life, and the impact of his father's legacy on his journey.

As we navigate through this article, we will cover various aspects of Chris Long's life, including his early days, college football career, professional achievements, and philanthropic efforts. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of Howie Long's son and his contributions to the NFL landscape.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Chris Long
• Early Life and Background
• College Football Career
• NFL Career Highlights
• Super Bowl Victories
• Philanthropy and Community Involvement
• Personal Life and Interests
• Legacy of the Long Family

Biography of Chris Long

Early Life and Background

Chris Long grew up in a sports-oriented family, being the son of Howie Long, a former NFL defensive end and current sports analyst. He was exposed to the world of sports from a young age, which helped shape his passion for football. Chris attended Loyola High School in Los Angeles, where he excelled as a standout player on the football team.

During his high school years, Chris was recognized for his athleticism and skills on the field, earning numerous accolades and awards. His father’s influence and experience in the NFL played a significant role in motivating Chris to pursue a football career. He demonstrated commitment and dedication, setting the stage for his future success.

College Football Career

After completing high school, Chris Long enrolled at the University of Virginia, where he continued to develop his football skills. He played for the Virginia Cavaliers from 2004 to 2007, becoming one of the top defensive players in college football. His college career was marked by impressive statistics, including:

• Over 100 tackles in multiple seasons
• 10.5 sacks in his senior year
• First-team All-ACC honors
• Consensus All-American recognition

Chris’s outstanding performance at Virginia caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the 2008 NFL Draft.

NFL Career Highlights

Chris Long was drafted as the second overall pick by the St. Louis Rams in the 2008 NFL Draft. His NFL career was filled with numerous highlights and accomplishments, establishing him as a formidable defensive end.

Throughout his career, Chris played for three teams:

• St. Louis Rams (2008-2015): Chris quickly made an impact, earning the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month award in September 2008. He became a consistent starter and key player for the Rams.
• New England Patriots (2016): After signing with the Patriots, Chris contributed significantly to the team's defensive lineup, helping them reach the Super Bowl.
• Philadelphia Eagles (2017-2018): Chris played a pivotal role in the Eagles’ defensive unit, culminating in a Super Bowl victory in 2018.

Super Bowl Victories

Chris Long’s journey in the NFL culminated in two remarkable Super Bowl victories:

• Super Bowl XLIX (2016): As a key player for the New England Patriots, Chris contributed to the team’s success in this championship game.
• Super Bowl LII (2018): With the Philadelphia Eagles, Chris played a vital role in securing the franchise’s first Super Bowl title, solidifying his legacy in the league.

Philanthropy and Community Involvement

Beyond his achievements on the field, Chris Long is known for his philanthropic efforts. He established the Chris Long Foundation, focusing on education and community development initiatives. Some of his notable contributions include:

• Building water wells in East Africa
• Providing scholarships for underprivileged students
• Supporting various charitable organizations

Chris's dedication to giving back to the community has earned him respect both inside and outside of the NFL. His efforts demonstrate the importance of using one’s platform for positive change.

Personal Life and Interests

Outside of football, Chris Long is a family man. He is married to his wife, Megan, and they have two children. Chris enjoys spending time with his family, participating in outdoor activities, and engaging in various hobbies.

Chris is also known for his candidness and openness about mental health issues, advocating for awareness and support for those facing similar challenges. His willingness to share personal experiences has made a significant impact on many individuals.

Legacy of the Long Family

Howie Long’s legacy as an NFL Hall of Famer has undoubtedly influenced Chris Long’s career. However, Chris has established his own identity and made significant contributions to the sport, showcasing that he is more than just Howie Long’s son. He has built a legacy of his own, marked by athletic prowess, leadership, and a commitment to philanthropy.

As the Long family continues to thrive in the world of football, Chris Long’s journey is a testament to hard work, determination, and the importance of giving back to the community.

Conclusion

In summary, Chris Long has successfully made his mark in the NFL, earning respect for his performance on the field and his efforts off the field. With two Super Bowl victories and a commitment to philanthropy, he has created a legacy that stands alongside his father's. We encourage you to share your thoughts about Chris Long and his journey in the comments below, and don’t forget to explore more articles on our site!

Closing Thoughts

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Howie Long's son, Chris Long, and his remarkable journey in the NFL. We hope you found this article informative and engaging. Be sure to come back for more exciting content and updates on your favorite athletes!