Howie Long has been married to Diane Addonizio since June 27, 1982. While the Hall of Fame defensive end spent thirteen seasons dominating the trenches for the Oakland and Los Angeles Raiders and later built a successful career in broadcasting, Diane established her own path as a lawyer and businesswoman. Their marriage has lasted for over four decades, making them one of the more enduring couples in professional sports.
How Howie Long and Diane Addonizio Met
The couple first crossed paths during their undergraduate years at Villanova University in Pennsylvania. Howie was playing football and carving out a reputation as a fierce competitor on the gridiron, while Diane focused heavily on her studies, graduating near the top of her class.
Friends and sports chroniclers often point to their college foundation as the anchor for their long-term stability. Long entered the NFL as a second-round draft pick in 1981, and the pair married shortly after graduation in 1982, just as his professional football career started to take off.
Diane Addonizio's Professional Background
Unlike many spouses of high-profile athletes who choose to stay entirely out of the professional spotlight, Diane pursued a demanding career of her own. After completing her undergraduate education at Villanova, she attended law school and earned her Juris Doctor degree.
She practiced law for several years, balancing her own professional aspirations with the chaotic travel schedule and intense media scrutiny that accompanied her husband's playing days and subsequent television career with Fox Sports. Over the years, she has also been involved in various entrepreneurial and philanthropic projects.
Raising Three Sons in the NFL Spotlight
Howie and Diane share three sons: Chris, Kyle, and Howard Jr. Athletics played a central role in their household, and all three boys pursued football careers of their own:
- Chris Long: The eldest son played defensive end in the NFL for eleven seasons, winning two Super Bowls with the Philadelphia Eagles and New England Patriots.
- Kyle Long: The middle son became a standout offensive lineman, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections during his tenure with the Chicago Bears.
- Howard Jr.: The youngest son worked behind the scenes in player personnel and football operations for the Las Vegas Raiders.
Diane and Howie maintained a strict rule of keeping family life grounded despite the immense pressures of professional sports. Both parents emphasized education, discipline, and humility, ensuring their children navigated athletic success without losing perspective.
Life After Football and Current Whereabouts
Decades after hanging up his cleats and earning induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000, Howie remains a fixture on television screens as an analyst for FOX NFL Sunday.
Away from the studio, Howie and Diane split their time between homes in Virginia and Arizona, enjoying life as grandparents. Their long marriage stands as a rarity in professional sports, built on shared college roots, mutual respect for each other's careers, and a unified approach to raising their family out of the tabloids.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long have Howie Long and Diane Addonizio been married?
They tied the knot on June 27, 1982, and have been married for over 40 years.
What is Diane Addonizio's profession?
Diane is an attorney and entrepreneur who graduated from Villanova University before attending law school.
Did any of Howie Long's sons play in the NFL?
Yes. Two of their sons, Chris and Kyle, had prominent NFL careers spanning multiple Pro Bowl appearances and Super Bowl titles.
Where do Howie Long and his wife live?
The couple primarily divides their time between residences in Virginia and Arizona.
