Kyle Howard Long
Kyle Howard Long (born December 5, 1988) is a former American football guard who had a distinguished career in the National Football League (NFL). He played seven seasons with the Chicago Bears, a tenure during which he was named to three consecutive Pro Bowls and earned a second-team All-Pro selection.
Early Life and Education
Born into a family with a rich football heritage, Long is the son of Pro Football Hall of Fame defensive end Howie Long and the brother of former defensive end Chris Long. His early life was influenced heavily by football, given his father's and brother's successful careers in the sport.
Long initially attended Florida State University but left in 2009 for academic reasons following a DWI arrest. Recognizing the need to rebuild his academic and athletic career, he enrolled at Saddleback College, a community college in Mission Viejo, California. There, he returned to playing football, initially playing as a defensive end and recording 16 tackles and one quarterback sack in his freshman year.
Professional Career
Kyle Long was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft. His robust playing style and versatility on the offensive line quickly earned him a starting position and a reputation as one of the league's formidable guards. During his time with the Bears, Long was a critical component of their offensive line, contributing to both the running and passing games.
Despite a successful run with the Bears, Long faced multiple injuries that plagued his career. In 2019, after battling these injuries, Long announced his retirement from professional football. However, his passion for the game led to a brief return in 2021 when he signed with the Kansas City Chiefs. Unfortunately, injuries once again hindered his ability to play during the season.
Legacy
Kyle Long's career is a testament to his resilience and skill in professional football. His contributions to the Chicago Bears and his brief stint with the Kansas City Chiefs highlight a career marked by dedication and a love for the game. Long's legacy is also bolstered by his family's deep connections to the NFL, making the Long family one of the most recognized in American football history.