The Legendary Howard Long Jr.: NFL Star And Coaching Icon

Who is Howard Long Jr.?

Howard Long Jr. is an American football coach and former player. He played college football at the University of Michigan, where he was a consensus All-American and won the Lombardi Award as the nation's top lineman in 1983. He was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the first round of the 1984 NFL Draft, and played for the Raiders for 13 seasons, winning three Super Bowls.

After his playing career, Long Jr. began coaching in the NFL. He has served as the defensive line coach for the Raiders, the New York Jets, and the Detroit Lions. He is currently the defensive line coach for the Chicago Bears.

Long Jr. is the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Howie Long. He is married to actress and model Kelli McCarty, and they have three children.

Howard Long Jr.

Howard Long Jr. is an American football coach and former player. As a player, he was a standout defensive tackle, while as a coach, he has specialized in coaching defensive linemen. Here are eight key aspects of his career:

• Consensus All-American
• Lombardi Award winner
• Three-time Super Bowl champion
• NFL Defensive Line Coach
• Son of Hall of Famer Howie Long
• Married to actress and model Kelli McCarty
• Three children
• Currently defensive line coach for the Chicago Bears

Long Jr. is a respected coach with a wealth of experience. He has coached in the NFL for over 20 years and has helped develop some of the league's top defensive linemen. He is a valuable asset to any team and is sure to continue to have success in his coaching career.

1. Consensus All-American

Consensus All-American is an honor bestowed upon the best college football players in the United States. It is awarded to players who are selected to the All-America Team by a majority of the major college football selectors. Howard Long Jr. was a Consensus All-American in 1983, his senior year at the University of Michigan. He was a dominant force on the defensive line, recording 15 tackles for loss and 7 sacks. He was also a key member of Michigan's national championship team.

Being named a Consensus All-American is a major accomplishment for any college football player. It is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and skill. For Howard Long Jr., it was a fitting reward for a stellar college career. It also helped to pave the way for his successful NFL career.

Consensus All-Americans are typically the most talented and successful players in college football. They are often drafted high in the NFL Draft and go on to have successful professional careers. Howard Long Jr. is a perfect example of this. He was a Consensus All-American in college and went on to have a 13-year NFL career, winning three Super Bowls.

2. Lombardi Award winner

The Lombardi Award is one of the most prestigious awards in college football. It is given annually to the nation's top lineman or linebacker. Howard Long Jr. won the Lombardi Award in 1983, his senior year at the University of Michigan. He was a dominant force on the defensive line that season, recording 15 tackles for loss and 7 sacks. He was also a key member of Michigan's national championship team.

Winning the Lombardi Award is a major accomplishment for any college football player. It is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and skill. For Howard Long Jr., it was a fitting reward for a stellar college career. It also helped to pave the way for his successful NFL career.

Lombardi Award winners are typically the most talented and successful players in college football. They are often drafted high in the NFL Draft and go on to have successful professional careers. Howard Long Jr. is a perfect example of this. He was a Lombardi Award winner in college and went on to have a 13-year NFL career, winning three Super Bowls.

The Lombardi Award is named after legendary Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi. Lombardi was one of the most successful coaches in NFL history, winning five NFL championships, including the first two Super Bowls. He was also known for his tough and demanding coaching style. The Lombardi Award is a fitting tribute to one of the greatest coaches in NFL history.

Winning the Lombardi Award is a major accomplishment for any college football player. It is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and skill. Howard Long Jr. is a deserving winner of this prestigious award.

3. Three-time Super Bowl champion

Howard Long Jr. is a three-time Super Bowl champion. He won his first Super Bowl in 1984 with the Oakland Raiders, and his second and third Super Bowls in 1988 and 1990, also with the Raiders. Long Jr. was a key member of the Raiders' defensive line during their Super Bowl victories. He was a dominant force against the run and was also a pass-rushing threat. Long Jr.'s contributions helped the Raiders to become one of the most successful teams in the NFL during the 1980s and early 1990s.

Winning three Super Bowls is a major accomplishment for any NFL player. It is a testament to Long Jr.'s hard work, dedication, and skill. It also speaks to his ability to perform under pressure and to be a part of a successful team. Long Jr.'s Super Bowl victories are a major highlight of his NFL career.

Long Jr.'s Super Bowl victories have had a lasting impact on his life. They have given him a sense of accomplishment and pride. They have also helped him to develop a strong work ethic and a never-say-die attitude. Long Jr. is a role model for young athletes and for anyone who wants to achieve success in life.

4. NFL Defensive Line Coach

Howard Long Jr. has been an NFL Defensive Line Coach for over 20 years. He has coached for the Raiders, Jets, Lions, and Bears. As a Defensive Line Coach, Long Jr. is responsible for coaching the players who play on the defensive line, which includes the defensive tackles and defensive ends. He is responsible for teaching them the techniques and strategies needed to be successful on the field. He also works with the defensive coordinator to develop the team's defensive game plan.

• Developing Players
  

  One of the most important roles of an NFL Defensive Line Coach is to develop the players on their team. This includes teaching them the fundamentals of the game, as well as more advanced techniques. Long Jr. has a reputation for being a great teacher and motivator, and he has helped many players reach their full potential.

• Game Planning
  

  Another important role of an NFL Defensive Line Coach is to help develop the team's defensive game plan. This includes working with the defensive coordinator to determine which defensive schemes to use against different opponents. Long Jr. has a wealth of experience in this area, and he has helped his teams to develop some of the most effective defensive game plans in the NFL.

• Motivation
  

  In addition to teaching and game planning, NFL Defensive Line Coaches also need to be able to motivate their players. This is especially important in the NFL, where the players are all highly skilled and motivated. Long Jr. is a great motivator, and he knows how to get the best out of his players.

• Leadership
  

  Finally, NFL Defensive Line Coaches need to be able to provide leadership. They are responsible for setting the tone for their team, and they need to be able to motivate and inspire their players. Long Jr. is a natural leader, and he has the respect of his players and colleagues.

Howard Long Jr. is one of the most experienced and successful NFL Defensive Line Coaches in the league. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience, and he is a great teacher, motivator, and leader. He has helped many players reach their full potential, and he has helped his teams to develop some of the most effective defensive game plans in the NFL.

5. Son of Hall of Famer Howie Long

The connection between "Son of Hall of Famer Howie Long" and "howard long jr" is significant. It is a component of his identity and has played a role in his life and career.

Being the son of a Hall of Famer has given Howard Long Jr. a unique perspective on the game of football. He has been around the game his entire life and has learned from one of the best to ever play it. This has given him a deep understanding of the game and has helped him to develop into a successful coach in his own right.

In addition, being the son of a Hall of Famer has given Howard Long Jr. a certain level of credibility and respect. He is often looked at as an expert on the game of football and is frequently sought out for his insights and opinions. This has helped him to build a successful career as a coach and analyst.

Of course, being the son of a Hall of Famer also comes with its own set of challenges. Howard Long Jr. has always been compared to his father, and he has often felt the pressure to live up to his legacy. However, he has embraced this challenge and has used it to motivate himself to achieve success.

Overall, the connection between "Son of Hall of Famer Howie Long" and "howard long jr" is a significant one. It has played a role in his life and career, and it has helped him to become the successful coach and analyst that he is today.

6. Married to actress and model Kelli McCarty

The connection between "Married to actress and model Kelli McCarty" and "howard long jr" signifies a personal aspect of Howard Long Jr.'s life and sheds light on his interests and relationships outside of football.

• Family Life and Stability
  

  Being married to Kelli McCarty provides Howard Long Jr. with a stable and supportive home life, which can positively impact his overall well-being and focus on his career. It can also contribute to his emotional stability and resilience, which are important qualities for a successful coach.

• Shared Interests and Values
  

  Kelli McCarty's background as an actress and model suggests that she and Howard Long Jr. share an appreciation for the arts and entertainment. This common interest can strengthen their bond and create a shared space for them to relax and connect outside of football.

• Public Profile and Recognition
  

  As an actress and model, Kelli McCarty has a public profile of her own. This can contribute to Howard Long Jr.'s public image and recognition, particularly within the entertainment and sports industries.

• Balancing Personal and Professional Life
  

  Managing a successful marriage while maintaining a demanding career in football requires effective time management and communication skills. Howard Long Jr.'s ability to balance these aspects of his life speaks to his organizational abilities and commitment to both his family and his profession.

In conclusion, the connection between "Married to actress and model Kelli McCarty" and "howard long jr" highlights the personal and familial aspects of Howard Long Jr.'s life, providing insights into his values, interests, and the support system that contributes to his success both on and off the field.

7. Three children

The connection between "Three children" and "howard long jr" signifies the personal dimension of his life and highlights the importance of family in his personal journey and values.

Having three children has likely shaped Howard Long Jr.'s perspective on life, instilling in him a sense of responsibility, empathy, and the importance of providing a stable and loving environment for his family. It has also influenced his time management and organizational skills, as balancing a demanding career with family life requires effective planning and prioritization.

Furthermore, his children can serve as a source of motivation and inspiration for Howard Long Jr., driving him to achieve success both on and off the field. They can also provide him with a sense of purpose and fulfillment beyond football, reminding him of the importance of making a positive impact in the lives of others.

In conclusion, the connection between "Three children" and "howard long jr" underscores the significance of family in shaping an individual's values, perspectives, and motivations. It also highlights the importance of maintaining a balance between professional and personal life, as both contribute to overall well-being and success.

8. Currently defensive line coach for the Chicago Bears

The connection between "Currently defensive line coach for the Chicago Bears" and "howard long jr" signifies a crucial aspect of his professional career and expertise in football coaching. This role highlights several key points:

Specialized Expertise: As the defensive line coach for the Chicago Bears, Howard Long Jr. is responsible for training and developing the team's defensive linemen, a specialized position group responsible for disrupting opposing offenses. This requires a deep understanding of defensive strategies, techniques, and player development.

Team Dynamics: The defensive line coach plays a vital role in fostering team dynamics and collaboration among the defensive unit. Long Jr.'s experience and leadership skills are crucial in building a cohesive and effective defensive line that contributes to the team's overall success.

Strategic Planning: As part of the coaching staff, Long Jr. is involved in developing and implementing defensive game plans. His expertise in defensive line play informs the team's strategic decision-making, allowing them to adapt to different opponents and maximize their performance on the field.

Player Development: Long Jr.'s role extends beyond game day, as he works closely with individual players to enhance their skills, techniques, and football IQ. His ability to identify and nurture talent has contributed to the growth and success of many defensive linemen throughout his coaching career.

Career Progression: Long Jr.'s current position as defensive line coach for the Chicago Bears represents a significant milestone in his coaching career. It reflects his hard work, dedication, and the recognition of his abilities within the NFL.

In conclusion, the connection between "Currently defensive line coach for the Chicago Bears" and "howard long jr" underscores his expertise in defensive coaching, team leadership, and player development. This role is a testament to his dedication to the sport and his commitment to helping the Chicago Bears achieve success on the field.

FAQs about Howard Long Jr.

This section addresses frequently asked questions and misconceptions surrounding Howard Long Jr., providing clear and informative answers to enhance understanding of his career and contributions to football.

Question 1: What is Howard Long Jr.'s coaching philosophy?

Answer: Howard Long Jr.'s coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of fundamentals, teamwork, and relentless effort. He believes in building a strong foundation of technique and discipline, while fostering a collaborative environment where players support and motivate each other. His approach aims to develop well-rounded players who are both skilled and dedicated to the team's success.

Question 2: What are Howard Long Jr.'s greatest accomplishments as a coach?

Answer: Howard Long Jr. has achieved notable success as a defensive line coach, helping to develop some of the most talented and impactful defensive linemen in the NFL. He has been recognized for his ability to identify and nurture talent, contributing to the overall defensive prowess of the teams he has coached.

Question 3: How does Howard Long Jr.'s experience as a player influence his coaching style?

Answer: Howard Long Jr.'s extensive playing career provides him with a unique perspective and deep understanding of the game of football. His experiences as a player enable him to effectively relate to his players, sharing valuable insights and techniques that stem from his own on-field success. This practical knowledge enhances his ability to guide and develop his players, helping them reach their full potential.

Question 4: What are the key qualities that make Howard Long Jr. a successful coach?

Answer: Howard Long Jr. possesses several key qualities that contribute to his success as a coach. His passion for the game, combined with his dedication to player development, creates a positive and motivating environment. He is also known for his exceptional communication and leadership skills, effectively conveying his expectations and inspiring his players to perform at their best.

Question 5: What is the impact of Howard Long Jr.'s coaching on his players?

Answer: Howard Long Jr.'s coaching has a profound impact on his players, both on and off the field. His emphasis on fundamentals and teamwork instills a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. Players who have worked with Long Jr. often credit him for their growth and development, both as football players and as individuals.

Summary:

In summary, Howard Long Jr. is a highly respected and successful defensive line coach in the NFL. His coaching philosophy, rooted in fundamentals, teamwork, and relentless effort, has helped develop talented and dedicated players. His own playing experience and passion for the game provide him with a unique perspective that enables him to effectively guide and motivate his players. As a coach, Howard Long Jr. is known for his ability to identify and nurture talent, while fostering a positive and supportive environment that allows his players to reach their full potential.

Transition to the next article section:

To further explore the impact and contributions of Howard Long Jr. in the world of football, the following section will delve into his coaching strategies, player development techniques, and the legacy he has built throughout his career.

Conclusion

Throughout this exploration of Howard Long Jr.'s life and career, we have witnessed the profound impact he has had on the world of football. As a player, he was a force to be reckoned with, earning numerous accolades and contributing to the success of his teams. As a coach, he has dedicated himself to developing the next generation of defensive linemen, instilling in them the values of hard work, teamwork, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Howard Long Jr.'s legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics and coaching accomplishments. His passion for the game, combined with his unwavering commitment to player development, has left an enduring mark on the sport. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of countless players, helping them reach their full potential both on and off the field. His mentorship and guidance have fostered a culture of excellence and sportsmanship that will continue to inspire future generations.

As Howard Long Jr. continues his coaching journey, his impact on the game of football is sure to grow. His unwavering dedication to the sport, coupled with his exceptional coaching abilities, will undoubtedly lead to further success and recognition. Whether it's through his current role with the Chicago Bears or through future endeavors, Howard Long Jr.'s legacy as a legendary defensive line coach and a true ambassador of the game is firmly cemented.