Facts About Diane Addonizio: Age, Height, and More

Diane Addonizio is best known as the wife of NFL Hall of Famer and television personality Howie Long, but her life story goes far beyond her role as a sports legend’s partner. Born in the United States in 1962, Diane carved her own path as a lawyer before dedicating much of her time to family life. Over the years, she has become known as the “First Lady of the NFL,” admired for her elegance, loyalty, and support of her husband’s decades-long career.

Quick Bio – Diane Addonizio

Who Is Diane Addonizio?

Diane Addonizio is widely recognized as the wife of Howie Long, one of the NFL’s greatest defensive ends and later a beloved TV sports analyst. But defining her only through her husband would overlook her own achievements. Diane trained as a lawyer, built a strong educational background, and raised a family that has become a dynasty in American football. Often referred to as the “NFL’s First Lady,” Diane represents loyalty, grace, and quiet strength.

Net Worth

Diane Addonizio has a net worth that is estimated to be more than $14 million, which Includes her husband’s earnings. Although for a brief period she practiced as an attorney Most of the Long family’s fortunes have come from Howie Long’s NFL career, his endorsement deals and his work as a broadcaster with Fox Sports. Since then, Diane had lived with modest comfort and a lot of discretion, providing for her family without calling attention to herself.

Meeting Howie Long and Their Love Story

Diane and Howard Matthew Moses Long — Howie Long, to most Americans — fell in love while they were both in college. They were introduced at Villanova University and hit it off immediately.

Howie, who was a star football player himself, eventually became one of the best defensive ends in NFL history. Diane, with her quiet allure and supportive presence, became an important fixture in his life.

Their romance flourished and, after dating for a few years, he married her in 1982. The two have been a tight-knit pair ever since, sharing the kind of marriage that endures throughout more than four decades, which is no small feat in the worlds of professional sports and Hollywood.

Married Life and Family

Diane and Howie Long’s marriage has always been a cornerstone of her identity. Their relationship, built on mutual respect and trust, has stood the test of time. Together, they raised three sons:

• Chris Long – A former NFL defensive end who played for the St. Louis Rams, New England Patriots, and Philadelphia Eagles. He won two Super Bowl championships before retiring in 2019.
  
• Kyle Long – A former offensive guard who played for the Chicago Bears and later became an analyst.
  
• Howie Long Jr. – Works in sports management and has been involved with the Oakland Raiders organisation.
  

For Diane, family has always come first. She dedicated much of her life to raising her children and supporting their careers, just as she did with her husband’s journey from player to broadcaster.

The “NFL’s First Lady”

Given her long association with Howie Long, Diane is often referred to in NFL circles as the “First Lady of the NFL.” That title, which represents not just her husband’s storied career but also that special wife and partner who somehow remained dignified, private and graceful while under the glare of such fame.

She has been to numerous NFL functions, walked many a red carpet and family gatherings with elegance… never overshadowing her husband. She is beloved by many for her role as a rock in a world that sometimes seems to celebrate fame over blood.

Physical Appearance and Style

Diane has always carried herself with elegance. With her blonde hair, brown eyes, and graceful smile, she is often noted for her natural beauty.

• Height: 165 cm (5 feet 5 inches)
  
• Weight: 57 kg (126 lbs)
  
• Hair: Blonde
  
• Eyes: Brown
  

Her fashion choices lean toward classic and understated looks, reflecting sophistication rather than flashiness. She is rarely seen in over-the-top styles, preferring timeless attire that suits her personality

Personal Life

Diane’s life has been about family and values. In 1982 she married Howie Long, and they created a home that was full of love and discipline and support. Comparatively, their relationship has been kept private and has lasted as they’ve stayed married for over 43 years.

She is also a doting mom to three boys — Chris, Kyle and Howie Jr. — who have all followed in their family’s footsteps of being in the sports industry. Diane’s religion is a very important part of her life and has helped her immensely on her journey.

Professional Life

Though she is better known as a celebrity spouse, Diane has a professional background in law. After graduating from Villanova University, she pursued legal studies and worked as a lawyer. While she later chose to prioritize her family life, her professional training reflects her intelligence, drive, and independence.

She has also been a supportive figure at NFL events and occasionally referred to in the media as a symbol of elegance and tradition within the football world.

Children

Diane and Howie Long raised three sons, all of whom found success in football and sports-related careers:

• Chris Long – A former NFL defensive end, two-time Super Bowl champion, and philanthropist.
  
• Kyle Long – Former NFL guard for the Chicago Bears and later sports analyst.
  
• Howie Long Jr. – Works in sports management, with ties to the Oakland Raiders.
  

Her role as a mother is central to her identity. She not only supported their careers but also instilled values of hard work, humility, and discipline.

Wife and Family Background

Diane is best known as the devoted wife of Howie Long, with whom she shares a remarkable love story that began in college. Their union has often been admired for its longevity, especially given the high-profile world of sports.

Her family life is built around stability and tradition. While her husband was in the spotlight, Diane created a warm and nurturing home environment, ensuring her children grew up with balance and grounding despite fame.

The Story of Success

To borrow a hockey phrase, Diane Addonizio’s isn’t a tale of chasing the headline but instead of finding success in quieter, more meaningful ways. Her successes have been in weaving a successful marriage, rearing accomplished children and supporting her husband’s extraordinary career.

She did not make it by seeking fame but by maintaining balance. Her story is a reminder that one’s successes can be quantified by family, individual honor and the fact that you survive without a camera on your face.

Education

Diane’s early years were filled with a great focus on education. She graduated from Villanova University and received a master’s degree in Classical Studies. It was in college that she met Howie Long and the two fell in love.

After receiving an undergraduate degree, Diane continued her education and went back to school for law because that’s how dedicated she is to excelling academically as well as professionally. Amid her busy career, she had the tools from her education to excel in her personal life and become a supportive partner and mom.

Final Word

At 63 years old, Diane Addonizio continues to inspire as a symbol of loyalty, family values, and quiet strength. While her husband Howie Long became a legend in the NFL and later on television, Diane provided the foundation that allowed their family to thrive. Her story is one of grace, resilience, and love—proof that sometimes the most influential lives are lived away from the spotlight.

FAQs

Q: When was Diane Addonizio born?
A: She was born on January 1, 1962.

Q: How old is Diane Addonizio?
A: As of 2025, she is 63 years old.

Q: What is Diane Addonizio’s profession?
A: She trained as a lawyer.

Q: Who is Diane Addonizio married to?
A: She has been married to Howie Long since 1982.