After more than two decades of sharing his insights and analysis on Fox NFL Sunday, Howie Long is stepping away from his broadcasting career to make a bold return to the field. Long, a Hall of Fame defensive lineman and longtime Fox Sports analyst, announced his decision to leave the popular NFL pregame show to take on a new role as an assistant coach for the Las Vegas Raiders. This move marks a significant shift in Long’s career, as he transitions from the broadcast booth back into the high-stakes world of professional football.
In a heartfelt statement, Long explained that while he has greatly enjoyed his time as a commentator, there has always been an underlying desire to return to the sidelines, where he could have a more direct impact on the game. “After more than 20 years of analyzing the game from the outside, it’s always been a strong desire of mine to return to the field,” Long said. “I’ve had the privilege of working alongside incredible talent in the broadcast booth, but I feel that now is the time to immerse myself in the coaching side of the game. To have the opportunity to work with a team, especially one like the Raiders, is something that excites me immensely.”
Long’s career as an analyst has been marked by his deep knowledge of the game and his ability to break down complex plays in a way that resonates with both casual fans and die-hard football enthusiasts. His unique perspective, gained from his years as a standout defensive player in the NFL, has made him a beloved figure on Fox NFL Sunday. However, despite his success as a broadcaster, Long has always remained passionate about coaching and the day-to-day challenges that come with it.
Joining the Raiders is a return to familiar territory for Long, who has had a longstanding relationship with the organization. He spent the majority of his playing career with the Raiders, from 1981 to 1993, and became one of the most dominant defensive players in the history of the league. Long’s leadership on the field and his work ethic were key components of the team’s success during his tenure. Now, after decades away from the action, Long is eager to contribute to the Raiders in a different capacity—by helping to mold the next generation of players.
“I’m excited to help develop and mentor the young talent on this team,” Long shared. “There’s nothing like the feeling of being in the trenches with a group of players who are all working toward a common goal. I’m looking forward to contributing to the Raiders’ legacy in any way I can, and I’m eager to get started.”
His departure from Fox NFL Sunday will undoubtedly leave a void on the show, where Long’s presence has been an integral part of the program’s success. However, his transition to coaching is a natural progression for someone who has always been passionate about football beyond just the X’s and O’s of the game. For Long, this is not just a career shift but a return to the sport that has given him so much.
As the Raiders prepare for the upcoming season, Long’s presence on the coaching staff is expected to bring a wealth of experience, a keen understanding of defensive strategies, and a deep passion for the game. With his return to the field, Long is poised to make an impact not just as a coach but as someone who embodies the spirit of the game he has loved for so long.
