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FOX NFL Sunday pundit Howie Long has jokingly revealed that his wife harbours "concerns" regarding his tight friendship with Terry Bradshaw, as the former NFL stars have maintained their close bond for three decades. The beloved pregame programme returned on September 7th for Week 1 of the NFL season, with Bradshaw committing an embarrassing blunder that Donald Trump would likely endorse.

However, Jimmy Johnson was notably absent for the first occasion since 2002. Johnson chose to step down at the conclusion of last season, yet Long and Bradshaw continue as pillars of the FOX Sports programme. Bradshaw and Long have featured on the show since its 1994 launch and have forged a brotherhood spanning the last 30 years. When all FOX NFL Sunday members were questioned about whom they missed most during the off-season, there was only one response for Bradshaw and Long.

This follows Bradshaw turning away from Michael Strahan after hearing his Aaron Rodgers assessment. "My wife is a little concerned about our relationship," Long remarked in jest after selecting Bradshaw, who fixed his colleague with an intense stare upon being posed the question.

"We're in touch quite a bit in the offseason," Bradshaw responded. "Yeah, good to see him," Long continued. Curt Menefee continues as presenter of FOX NFL Sunday, alongside Jay Glazer and Michael Strahan.

Former NFL tight end Rob Gronkowski has taken Johnson's place. Despite being 12 years younger than Bradshaw, Long's career overlapped with his for three seasons.

Bradshaw was the first overall pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1970 and led the team to four Super Bowl victories before hanging up his boots in 1984.

His close friend and colleague, Long, was chosen by the Oakland Raiders in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft. He celebrated his only championship a year after Bradshaw retired and decided to end his career after the 1993 season.

Although their interactions were limited during their NFL careers, Bradshaw and Long have become close friends since joining FOX Sports. Ahead of Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, Bradshaw spoke to reporters about his unique bond with Long.

Long was sitting next to Bradshaw when the question was asked, and he leaned over and said, "I love you, man."

Bradshaw explained to reporters: "That's what it is right there. We're mates, we're really good friends. We're family, me and him, and it grew into family. It's like anything else. It's like getting married. You're in love with the person you marry, but you grow and build on it.

"And that's what Howie and I did. We're just really great friends and thoroughly enjoy each other's company."

In an interview with The Sun, Long also discussed his relationship with Bradshaw. "I've been so fortunate to have worked with Terry for 31 years," he said.

"I've laughed from the minute I get to work at 5 am until the day ends at 5 pm every Sunday for 31 years. This will be our 11th Super Bowl together, and it's still as much fun as it's ever been. I'm blessed."