In a stunning development, CBS Sports President David Berson has announced the immediate suspension of Las Vegas Raiders legend Howie Long following his controversial remarks about the Denver Broncos. The suspension comes just hours after the Raiders suffered a 24-17 loss to the Broncos at Allegiant Stadium, a defeat that leaves their playoff hopes hanging by a thread.

The Game That Just Happened

On Sunday, December 7, 2025, the Denver Broncos extended their dominance in the AFC West with a 24-17 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. The Broncos’ offense, led by quarterback Bo Nix, controlled the tempo for much of the game, as Nix threw for 278 yards and two touchdowns. Meanwhile, the Raiders’ offense struggled to generate consistency, with quarterback Geno Smith leaving the game in the third quarter due to a shoulder injury, further hindering their efforts.

The win improved the Broncos’ record to 10-3, while the Raiders dropped to 2-11 on the season. With their playoff chances fading, the Raiders now face an uphill battle in the final stretch of the season.

The Suspended Legend and Controversy

However, the excitement from the Broncos’ victory was quickly overshadowed by the announcement of Long’s suspension. The legendary former defensive lineman, now a respected analyst, made remarks about the Broncos during a pre-game broadcast that many considered “disrespectful” and “unprofessional.” Long criticized Denver’s offensive line and quarterback play, downplaying their ability to execute effectively against the Raiders’ defense. His comments, which were harshly critical of the Broncos’ performance and game plan, quickly went viral, sparking backlash from Broncos fans, analysts, and even former players.

CBS Sports, in a statement, confirmed the suspension and expressed regret over Long’s comments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining professionalism in their broadcasts:

“WE DEEPLY REGRET Howie Long’s UNACCEPTABLE COMMENT ON AIR. EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, HE IS SUSPENDED FROM OUR BROADCAST TEAM PENDING A FULL INTERNAL INVESTIGATION. CBS SPORTS DEMANDS THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF RESPECT AND PROFESSIONALISM – NO EXCEPTIONS.”

This swift suspension has shocked many, particularly in Las Vegas, where Long is considered one of the greatest players in Raiders history. A Hall of Fame defensive lineman and key member of the Raiders’ Super Bowl XVIII championship team, Long has long been a trusted voice in NFL broadcasting. His sudden suspension has raised serious questions about his future with CBS Sports.

Long’s Legacy with the Raiders

Howie Long’s legacy with the Las Vegas Raiders is legendary. A Super Bowl champion, an 8-time Pro Bowler, and one of the most dominant defensive linemen in NFL history, Long’s impact on the Raiders’ defense during the 1980s and 1990s is immeasurable. His leadership, toughness, and work ethic helped define the Raiders’ defense during their glory years, and he remains one of the most respected figures in franchise history.

Since retiring, Long has seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting, where his sharp insights and deep knowledge of the game have made him a fan favorite. However, his recent comments about the Broncos have raised concerns about his professionalism, and his suspension has cast a shadow over his broadcasting career.

What’s Next for Long and CBS Sports?

With Long now suspended, CBS Sports will need to find a temporary replacement for him in the broadcast booth for the upcoming Raiders-Broncos game. This AFC West rivalry is one of the most heated matchups in the NFL, with both teams fighting for playoff positioning in one of the most competitive divisions in football.

As CBS conducts its internal investigation, Long’s future with the network remains uncertain. Will this suspension be temporary, or will it result in a permanent departure from CBS Sports? Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how the situation unfolds in the coming days.

For the Raiders, the focus will quickly shift back to their crucial game against the Broncos. However, the fallout from Long’s comments will likely continue to make headlines leading up to the game. Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story continues to unfold.