NFL legend and Dallas Cowboys star Larry Allen has passed away at the age of 52, Allen former team announced. Allen, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013, was on vacation with Allen family in Mexico at the time of Allen death.
A Sudden Loss
The Dallas Cowboys shared the news of Allen’s passing with an online tribute. “The Dallas Cowboys are very saddened to share that Cowboys legend, Super Bowl Champion. And Cowboys Ring of Honor member with Pro Football Hall of Famer Larry Allen passed away. And he suddenly while on vacation in Mexico with Allen family on Sunday,” the team wrote.
Remembering a Legend
He celebrated for Allen athleticism, strength, and versatility on the field. Larry, known for Allen great athleticism and incredible strength accomplished offensive linemen to ever play in the NFL. “Allen versatility and dependability were also signature parts of his career. Through that, he continued to serve as inspiration for many other players, defining what it meant to be a great teammate, competitor and winner.”
Family and Legacy
Larry Allen survived Allen wife Janelle and their children, daughters Jayla and Loriana, and son Larry III. The Cowboys extended their deepest condolences to the Allen family. “The Jones family and the Cowboys extend their deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to the Allen family and grieve along with the many other friends and Cowboys teammates that also loved Larry,” the post added.
A Distinguished Career
Larry Allen’s career marked numerous accolades and achievements. And he among the rare group of players named to multiple NFL All-Decade Teams (1990s and 2000s). Throughout Allen 203 career games, Allen played in two NFC championship games and the starting right guard in the Cowboys’ victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XXX in 1996.
Hall of Fame Induction
In 2013, Larry Allen inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. During Allen acceptance speech, he expressed Larry gratitude to Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and his entire family. He shared a memorable moment of Larry excitement upon being asked to play for the NFL team, recalling how he jumped into a swimming pool with all Larry clothes on.
From Compton to the NFL
Originally from Compton, California, Larry Allen began Larry college football career at Butte Junior College in Oroville before transferring to Sonoma State, a Division II school near San Francisco. Larry dominant performance lineman caught the attention of the Dallas Cowboys, who used their second-round pick on Allen in the 1994 NFL Draft.
A Versatile Lineman
Larry Allen’s versatility a significant asset to the Cowboys, he played every position on the offensive line except center during Larry 12 seasons in Dallas. He started 10 games in his rookie season and split time between guard and tackle. In Larry second season, Allenplaced in the right guard spot, helping Emmitt Smith set a Cowboys single-season record with 1,773 yards rushing.
Accolades and Recognition
Allen’s contributions recognized through numerous awards and honors. He was named All-Pro for the first of seven consecutive seasons and selected for the Pro Bowl 11 times during Larry career. He also named the NFL’s Offensive Lineman of the Year the NFL Alumni in 1997 and the NFL Players Association the NFC Offensive Lineman of the Year in 1996 and 1997.
A Legacy of Respect
During Larry Hall of Fame speech, Allen emphasized the importance of earning respect. “My goal was simple, to earn a seven-word letter called respect. The respect of my teammates, opponents, and the NFL,” he said. “Today, my mission is complete. I also played hard, whistle to whistle, to make my opponents submit. And today, I’m submitting to you.” Larry Allen’s passing marks the loss of a legendary figure in the NFL, whose legacy of strength, versatility, and respect will continue to inspire players and fans alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the passing of NFL legend Larry Allen at the age of 52 has left a profound void in the football community. Allen’s remarkable career, marked Larry athleticism. And he left an indelible mark on the sport. As a member of the Dallas Cowboys and later the San Francisco 49ers.
Allen’s contributions consistently recognized through accolades and honors, culminating in Larry induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013. Larry departure is mourned not only Larry family, teammates, and fans but the entire football fraternity. Larry Allen’s memory will live on as a testament to the enduring impact of Larry remarkable career and the values he embodied.