The Las Vegas Raiders have officially announced the return of one of their most iconic former players, Howie Long, to the team — this time in a new role as a bench coach. The news was first reported by TRU Raider, and it has since sparked excitement among fans and NFL circles alike.
Howie Long, a Pro Football Hall of Famer, spent his entire 13-season NFL career with the Raiders, beginning in 1981 when the team was still based in Oakland. Known for his relentless style of play, leadership on the field, and fearsome presence on the defensive line, Long helped lead the Raiders to a Super Bowl XVIII victory and earned eight Pro Bowl selections during his career. He retired in 1993.
Following his retirement from professional football, Long quickly transitioned to broadcasting, becoming a mainstay on FOX NFL SUNDAY as a studio analyst. For more than 20 years, he brought his expert analysis and charismatic personality to football fans across the country.
Now, in a move that brings his journey full circle, Long is stepping away from the studio lights and back onto the sidelines. According to sources close to the team, Long expressed a long-standing desire to be more directly involved with the game again, helping to shape players and contribute to the team’s culture from within.
“I’ve talked about it for years — how much I missed the locker room, the grind, and being in the trenches with the guys,” Long said in a brief statement. “This is the right time, and there’s no better place than the Raiders.”
While his role as a bench coach is expected to be more advisory than tactical, Long’s deep knowledge of the game, along with his legacy within the franchise, is anticipated to bring a major boost to the team’s morale and development. Head coach Antonio Pierce has reportedly welcomed the move, emphasizing the importance of having veteran voices in the building who understand Raider football.
Fans are eagerly awaiting to see what impact Long can make in this new chapter — not just as a former legend returning home, but as a mentor to the next generation of Raiders.
