Meet Diane Addonizio: A Closer Look at Howie Long's Talented and Successful Wife

Diane Addonizio, a non-practicing lawyer and a successful businesswoman, gained recognition primarily as the spouse of Howie Long. Long is an American retired football player, who notably spent 13 seasons in the National Football League (NFL). 

Diane Addonizio's Early Life

Diane Addonizio was born on March 16, 1962, in Red Bank, New Jersey. Her parents were Frank Addonizio and Maria Cecere, and she has a brother named James, who is a practicing lawyer. 

Addonizio's father, a war veteran and former security director, faced a diagnosis of lymphoma. Frank lived in a cottage on the Longs' 65-acre property, and the family followed the Catholic faith.

Growing up, Diane attended Red Bank High School and later went to Villanova University in Pennsylvania, where she won the Monmouth County Beauty pageant in 1978. She also studied at Middletown High School South, focusing on political science and drama. 

Diane completed her bachelor's degree in classical studies in 1985 and then pursued a law degree at the University of Southern California, graduating in 1987.

How Wealthy is Diane Addonizio?

As of 2023, Diane Addonizio's net worth stands at $2 million. Meanwhile, her husband Howie Long boasts an estimated fortune of $16 million, with a reported salary of $4 million. 

Even though Long had a prosperous and extensive career as a defensive end in the NFL. Nowadays, he is more recognized for his roles as an actor and a sports analyst. 

Diane Addonizio Career Highlights

Diane Addonizio, apart from her other endeavors, is an author. She penned a book called "He’s Just My Dad," focusing not on athletes in sports but on their role as fathers. This book was published in 2000. 

Additionally, Addonizio actively contributes as a member of the NFL Head UP Football Advisory Committee.

Diane Addonizio’s Relationship With Howie Long  

Diane Addonizio and Howie Long crossed paths during their time as students at Villanova University. Howie, a year ahead of Diane, first connected with her by inviting her to his room to watch an NFL game on a small 12-inch, black and white TV given by his grandmother.  

Reflecting on their initial encounters, Addonizio recalled being struck by Long's impressive stature and good looks. She noted his intense drive, describing him as constantly on edge, feeling as though everyone was watching him wherever they went.  

Recollecting the same moment, Howie reminisced about watching a Dallas game together, specifically the time when the team was experimenting with Randy White at linebacker. He vividly described a play where White forcefully knocked the ball carrier's helmet off, enthusiastically sharing the moment with Diane.  

Looking back, Long confessed he acted a bit wild during their first date, showing a side that might have seemed a little crazy to his future wife. 

During the early stages of their relationship, Howard didn't give Diane any Valentine's Day gifts, which used to upset her. Later, he explained to her that holidays or special occasions didn't hold much significance to him due to his unpredictable childhood experiences. 

While most students went home for holidays at Villanova, Howard was the one who stayed behind in the dorms. His reluctance to celebrate stemmed from his unsettled upbringing, as Diane elaborated, describing how he never had his bed and was constantly moving between relatives, always carrying his belongings. 

Diane Addonizio And Howie Long Tied The Knot in 1982

After dating for several years, Diane Addonizio and Howie Long got engaged shortly after graduation. Howard purchased an engagement ring for Diane after signing an NFL contract worth $38,000 in 1981. 

Their wedding took place in June 1982. In a book titled "A Farewell to Arms, Legs, and Jockstraps: A Sportswriter’s Memoir," Addonizio shared that she learned about street smarts from her husband, while he gained insights into diplomacy from her.

Diane currently resides with her family in Albemarle County, Virginia.

Diane Addonizio Children

Howie Long and Diane Addonizio have three children together. Their first son, Christopher Howard, was born on March 28, 1985, in Santa Monica, California. Three years later, they welcomed their second son, Kyle Howard, on December 5, 1988. Their youngest son, Matthew Howard, was born around 1990. 

All three sons have pursued careers in the NFL, following in their father's footsteps. Christopher played as a defensive end for both the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles. He secured victories in two Super Bowls, LI, and LII, firstly with the Patriots and then with the Eagles. 

Christopher retired from professional football on May 18, 2019, after playing for the Philadelphia Eagles. Similarly, Kyle played for the NFL's Chicago Bears from 2013 to 2019. Formerly a college football player at the University of Oregon, he currently serves as a guard for the Kansas City Chiefs. 

The youngest member of the family, Matthew, works as a scouting assistant and personal assistant for the Raiders. He is also a premium sales consultant at Legends Las Vegas Stadium. Matthew previously played lacrosse at Virginia.

Additionally, the Longs have two grandsons, Waylon James Long and Luke Redding Long, from their eldest son Christopher's marriage to Megan O’Malley.

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