Howie Long says son Chris gave up more money elsewhere to sign with Patriots

Hall of Fame defensive end and Massachusetts native Howie Long never had the opportunity to play for his hometown team, so seeing his son Chris sign with the New England Patriots was the next best thing.

"It's taken a lot longer than maybe I would have thought, but a Long in a Patriots uniform would look pretty good," Howie told Mike Reiss of ESPN.

"I've always felt like, in my mind, the way they play, prepare, and go about their business on a day-in, day-out basis, that Chris is a Patriots-type player. I think it's a good marriage, I really do. It's an exciting opportunity for Chris."

Chris joined the Patriots on a one-year, $2.375-million deal after spending the first eight seasons of his career with the then-St. Louis Rams. Howie said his son's decision to sign with New England wasn't so much about money as it was getting the chance to compete for a Super Bowl.

"I know he could have gotten more money in other places," Howie said. "He probably would have been slotted right off the bat, but you go there for less money and you go there knowing you have to earn everything you get, and he's excited about that opportunity with that one goal in mind - having the opportunity to be there at the end and playing relevant games and having a shot at a championship.

"As a former player, those are the games that mean something, and for me, being part of a world championship team is special and something you never forget. ... He hasn't played in meaningful games (at the end of the year)."

Playing for head coach Bill Belichick was another draw for the defensive end.

"Listen, if Bill Belichick were coaching in Poland, I think you'd be excited about playing for him," Howie said.