Chris Long had a remarkable career, Though he may not have been a franchise-changing player that typically is expected of a number two overall pick, Long definitely played a big role on pretty much every team he was on.
The first thing that jumps off the page when looking up Long’s career is that he only missed 14 regular season games over 11 seasons.
Cheers. Been a hell of a journey. Eleven years and I can honestly say I put my soul into every minute of it. Highs and lows. I’ve seen them both and I appreciate the perspective. Gratitude and love to those who lifted me up. pic.twitter.com/Ap8zi73Ifl
— Chris Long (@JOEL9ONE) May 19, 2019
Long, who is 34-years-old is the son of Hall of Fame defensive end Howie Long. And Kyle Long, Chris’ brother, plays for the Chicago Bears.
As good as Chris Long was on the field, he perhaps will leave a bigger legacy off the field. Long used his on-field platform to help others as much as anybody. In 2018, he donated his entire $1 million salary to charity. He has also been a rational voice during the national anthem protest controversy that’s been an uncomfortable situation for the league. Long found a way to talk to both sides, thus becoming something of a bridge between the two polarized sides.
As a result, Long was awarded the NFL’s Walter Payton Man of the Year award in 2018.
For his career, he will end with 70 sacks, 333 total tackles, and 15 forced fumbles.
He was a two-time Super Bowl champion, the first with the New England Patriots in 2017 and again with the Philadelphia Eagles the following year. He played his first eight seasons with the Rams, all while they were still in St. Louis.
