The Dallas Cowboys announced on Monday that Larry Allen, a Hall of Fame offensive lineman, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday while vacationing with his family in Mexico. He was 52.
“Larry, renowned for his exceptional athleticism and immense strength, was among the most esteemed and accomplished offensive linemen to grace the NFL,” the team stated. “His adaptability and reliability were hallmarks of his career, serving as a beacon of inspiration for countless other players, exemplifying the essence of being a stellar teammate, competitor, and victor.
“He was deeply cherished and cherished by his wife, Janelle—whom he affectionately referred to as his heart and soul—his daughters Jayla and Loriana, and son, Larry III. The Jones family and the Cowboys offer their heartfelt condolences, thoughts, and prayers to the Allen family, mourning alongside the numerous friends and Cowboys teammates who held Larry in high regard.”
The Cowboys indicated that details regarding a memorial service will be provided soon.
Allen, a second-round pick from Sonoma State in 1994, swiftly established himself as one of the most dominant offensive linemen in the league. He earned Pro Bowl honors 11 times and was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013. Playing for the Cowboys from 1994 to 2005, he secured a Super Bowl victory in 1995 before spending his final two seasons with the San Francisco 49ers.
“Our hearts and sympathies go out to the Allen family,” the 49ers remarked in a statement.
Overcoming a challenging upbringing in Compton, California, Allen exhibited resilience and talent throughout his career. He demonstrated versatility on the field, transitioning between positions to accommodate team needs. Off the field, he was known for his gentle demeanor and dedication to his family.
“Just learned of the heartbreaking news of our dear teammate Larry Allen’s passing,” shared Troy Aikman on Monday. “He was a Hall of Fame offensive lineman who dominated opponents regardless of where he lined up. Off the field, he was a gentle giant who adored his family. Rest in Peace, LA.”
Former Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith expressed his sorrow in an Instagram video, describing Allen as a “good dude, great player, super person” who lived life to the fullest and will be deeply missed.
Recognized as one of the NFL’s all-time greats, Allen was named to the league’s top-100 list in 2019 and was selected for the All-Decade teams for both the 1990s and 2000s. His remarkable displays of strength and speed, including bench-pressing 700 pounds and chasing down opponents on the field, left an indelible mark on the sport.