Howie Long built a durable NFL career as a defensive end while also becoming a prominent broadcaster. His career stats highlight steady production over many seasons rather than headline-grabbing peaks.
Below is a quick overview of his professional performance and media milestones, followed by deeper insights into games, records, and fan questions.
| Season | Team | Tackles | Sacks | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 | Oakland Raiders | 62 | 2.0 | 0 |
| 1982 | Oakland Raiders | 57 | 3.0 | 1 |
| 1983 | Oakland Raiders | 84 | 8.0 | 1 |
| 1984 | Oakland Raiders | 77 | 4.0 | 0 |
| 1990 | Los Angeles Raiders | 74 | 13.0 | 0 |
| 1991 | Los Angeles Raiders | 88 | 7.0 | 1 |
| 1992 | Los Angeles Raiders | 72 | 7.0 | 0 |
| 1993 | Los Angeles Raiders | 72 | 8.5 | 0 |
| 1994 | Los Angeles Raiders | 74 | 7.0 | 0 |
| 1995 | Los Angeles Raiders | 56 | 6.5 | 0 |
| 1996 | Los Angeles Raiders | 46 | 5.0 | 0 |
Howie Long Career Stats Early Performance
1981 to 1984: Foundation Years
Howie Long entered the league in 1981 with the Oakland Raiders and quickly established himself as a rotational edge rusher. In his third season, 1983, he posted 84 tackles and 8.0 sacks, showcasing a blend of power and pass-rushing skill that defined his early reputation.
Howie Long Career Stats Peak Seasons
1990 to 1994: Dominant Stretch in Los Angeles
After joining the Los Angeles Raiders, Long reached career highs in sacks and consistent tackle numbers. The stretch from 1990 to 1994 includes multiple seasons with over 70 tackles and at least 7 sacks per year, highlighting his durability and impact on a competitive defense.
Howie Long Career Stats Awards and Recognition
Pro Bowl Honors and All-Star Teams
Long earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro nods, underscoring his reputation as one of the top edge rushers of his era. His recognition from peers and media reflected consistent excellence rather than sporadic brilliance.
Howie Long Career Stats Broadcast Legacy
Transition to Media and Cultural Influence
After retiring, Howie Long became a well-respected broadcaster, earning Emmy Awards and widespread praise for his articulate analysis. His stats on the field translated into a successful second career shaping football discourse on national television.
Key Takeaways for Howie Long Career Stats
- Played 11 seasons, primarily with the Raiders across two decades.
- Recorded over 1,100 career tackles and more than 100 sacks.
- Earned multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors.
- Transitioned into a highly successful media career post-retirement.
- Remains one of the most recognizable defensive players in NFL history.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many Pro Bowl selections did Howie Long earn during his playing career?
Howie Long was selected to four Pro Bowls, reflecting his status as one of the top defensive players of his generation.
What were Howie Long career highs in sacks and tackles in a single season?
His peak season came in 1991 with 88 tackles and 7.0 sacks for the Los Angeles Raiders.
Did Howie Long ever lead the Raiders in sacks during his tenure with the team?
Yes, he led the Raiders in sacks multiple times, including standout years in the early 1980s and early 1990s.
How many Emmy Awards has Howie Long won as a broadcaster?
Long has won several Emmy Awards for his work as a football analyst and commentator.