Dallas Cowboys legend Larry Allen has passed away while on a family vacation in Mexico Sunday. Allen was arguably the best offensive lineman in NFL history, and his 10 Pro Bowl selections as a player for the Cowboys are still the most ever in the franchise. To note, Allen was also selected as a Pro Bowler in one of his final two seasons that he spent on the San Francisco 49ers.
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The details of the Hall of Famer's sudden death at the age of 52 have not been released yet.
Allen's former team announced his death and issued out a statement.
"Larry, known for his great athleticism and incredible strength, was one of the most respected, accomplished offensive linemen to ever play in the NFL. His 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."
Allen was drafted in the second round of the 1994 draft out of Sonoma State, and throughout his 12-year NFL career he was regarded as one of the strongest and toughest players to ever play on the gridiron.
Allen's career on the football field will always be remembered and his legacy will continue to carry on. Notably, he played in 203 NFL games and was inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton (2013).
"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."
Allen is survived by his wife Janelle, his daughters Jayla and Loriana and son, Larry III.
Former Cowboys' players, such as Emmitt Smith and Troy Aikman, eulogized their friend and former teammate who protected them for most of their playing career.
As the NFL's all-time leading rusher, Smith accumulated 18,355 yards and 164 rushing yards in his career, and most of those were behind Allen's blocking.
Smith called Allen a beast on the field and noted that he had a big heart off the field. He described him as a "good dude," great player," and a "super person" in a clip that he posted to Instagram.
A tearful Emmitt Smith on the sudden passing of Larry Allen:
"My heart is just broken. ...We need to make the best out of every moment and not take people granted."pic.twitter.com/us6qRzWtWt https://t.co/A4YXPLd5IF
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) June 3, 2024
"My thoughts and prayers go out to his family," the former running back said. "My heart is just broken."
Former quarterback Aikman also gave tribute to Allen in a tweet.
"He was a HOF offensive lineman that dominated opponents regardless of the position played. Off the field, he was a gentle giant that loved his family. Rest in Peace LA."
Related: Jim Brown, Legendary Cleveland Browns Running Back, Dies At 87
