Collegiate Career of Kyle Long

Kyle Howard Long embarked on his collegiate career with notable twists and turns before achieving success in professional football. Born into an athletic family, with his father, Howie Long, being a Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee, and his brother, Chris Long, a former defensive end, Kyle Long's future in sports seemed promising from the outset.

Early Challenges at Florida State University

Initially, Kyle Long attended Florida State University (FSU) on a scholarship for baseball, showcasing his dual athletic talents. However, his time at FSU was short-lived due to academic challenges and an arrest for driving while intoxicated (DWI). This abrupt end to his tenure at FSU in January 2009 halted his participation in collegiate sports temporarily.

Transition to Saddleback College

In 2010, Kyle Long enrolled at Saddleback College, a community college in Mission Viejo, California. This marked his return to football after a hiatus. At Saddleback, he initially played as a defensive end, where he recorded 16 tackles and one quarterback sack during his first year. This period was crucial in reigniting his passion for football and showcasing his potential.

University of Oregon and Emergence as an Offensive Guard

After his successful stint at Saddleback, Long transferred to the University of Oregon to join the Oregon Ducks football team. Under the guidance of renowned coach Chip Kelly, Long transitioned to the position of offensive guard, where he gained significant attention for his performance on the field. His athleticism and versatility were evident, paving the way for his future in the National Football League (NFL).

At Oregon, Long's gameplay was characterized by his powerful blocking and agility, which contributed to the team's offensive success. Despite the limited time he spent playing at the university level due to eligibility constraints, his impact was substantial enough to draw the attention of NFL scouts.

Path to the NFL

Kyle Long's collegiate journey culminated in his selection by the Chicago Bears during the 2013 NFL Draft. His college career, marked by resilience and adaptability, laid the foundational skills necessary for his successful professional career, where he became a three-time Pro Bowl player and a standout offensive guard.

Kyle Long: American Football Player

Kyle Howard Long (born December 5, 1988) is a former professional American football player known for his position as a guard in the National Football League (NFL). Over the course of his career, Long played for notable teams including the Chicago Bears and later the Kansas City Chiefs.

Early Life and Background

Kyle Long was born into a family with a strong legacy in professional sports. He is the son of Howie Long, a Pro Football Hall of Fame defensive end, and the younger brother of Chris Long, a former NFL defensive end. Raised in such an environment, Kyle was naturally inclined towards sports.

Collegiate Career

Kyle Long initially enrolled at Florida State University, where he was part of the football team. However, his academic journey at Florida State was cut short in January 2009 due to academic challenges and an arrest for driving while intoxicated (DWI). Long then transferred to Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, California, where he resumed his football career. At Saddleback, he played as a defensive end, recording 16 tackles and a quarterback sack during his first year.

Professional Career

Kyle Long's professional career began when he was selected by the Chicago Bears as the 20th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. His tenure with the Bears was marked by significant achievements, including three consecutive Pro Bowl selections and a second-team All-Pro honor. Long played a critical role in fortifying the Bears' offensive line, demonstrating remarkable skill and versatility.

After announcing his retirement in 2019, Long made a brief return to the NFL in 2021, signing with the Kansas City Chiefs. Unfortunately, due to injuries, he did not play during his time with the Chiefs.

Legacy

Kyle Long's impact on the field extends beyond his athletic performance; he is recognized for his resilience and the ability to overcome personal and professional challenges. His career, influenced by his family's storied history in the NFL, serves as an inspiration to many young athletes.

Kyle Long