The Las Vegas Raiders organization sent a jolt of excitement through its fanbase tonight with the official announcement that Pro Football Hall of Famer and beloved former defensive lineman, Howie Long, has joined the team’s ownership group. The move marks a significant moment for the franchise, bringing back a revered figure whose legacy is deeply intertwined with the Raiders’ storied history.
The announcement, made during a special press conference at Allegiant Stadium, was met with enthusiastic applause from Raiders faithful.
Long, a dominant force on the Raiders’ defensive line from 1981 to 1993 and a key member of their Super Bowl XVIII-winning team, expressed his profound connection to the organization and the Raider Nation.
“Once a Raider, always a Raider,” Long stated, his voice filled with emotion. “This organization and this community have always held a special place in my heart.
To have the opportunity to rejoin the team in this capacity, to continue to be a part of the Silver and Black, is truly an honor. I’m incredibly excited about the future and look forward to contributing to the Raiders’ success in a new way.”
While the specifics of Long’s ownership stake were not immediately disclosed, team sources indicated that his role will involve more than just financial investment.
He is expected to serve as a key advisor and ambassador for the organization, leveraging his vast football knowledge and deep understanding of the Raiders’ culture to contribute to strategic decisions and community engagement initiatives.
Raiders owner Mark Davis expressed his enthusiasm for Long’s return. “Howie Long is synonymous with Raiders football,” Davis commented. “His passion, his toughness, and his commitment to excellence embody everything this franchise stands for.
Bringing him back into the fold as a co-owner is a momentous occasion. His insights and his connection to the Raider Nation will be invaluable as we continue to build a winning tradition in Las Vegas.”
Long’s return to the Raiders comes at a pivotal time for the franchise as they continue to establish their presence in their new Las Vegas home.
His presence is expected to resonate deeply with longtime fans, evoking memories of the team’s glorious past while also injecting a sense of renewed optimism for the future.
The addition of Long to the ownership group follows a trend of former players taking on leadership roles within their former teams, bringing a unique perspective and understanding of the game and the team’s culture to the front office.
His experience as a Hall of Fame player and his articulate insights as a longtime broadcaster are seen as significant assets for the Raiders organization.
The Raiders Nation has long held Howie Long in high esteem, celebrating his dominant play and his unwavering commitment to the team. His return as a co-owner is being widely celebrated as a homecoming, a powerful reminder of the franchise’s rich history and a promising sign for its future.
As Long himself stated, he is “excited about still being a part of the team and a part of this community,” a sentiment that is undoubtedly shared by Raiders fans worldwide.