FRISCO, Texas – Larry Allen, widely regarded as one of the greatest offensive linemen in NFL history and a cornerstone of the Dallas Cowboys, has tragically passed away at the age of 52.
Allen died on Sunday while vacationing with his family in Mexico. His untimely passing has left the sports world in mourning.
Inducted into the Hall of Fame on his first ballot in 2013, Allen was celebrated as a member of the All-Decade teams for both the 1990s and 2000s. His 14-season career spanned from 1994 to 2007, with the first 12 seasons played for the Cowboys.
Allen was one of three Cowboys with double-digit Pro Bowl selections, earning 10 Pro Bowls and seven All-Pro honors during his tenure in Dallas. He concluded his career with the San Francisco 49ers, securing an 11th Pro Bowl selection in 2006.
The Cowboys released a statement on Monday morning expressing their grief:
“The Dallas Cowboys are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Larry Allen, a legend, Super Bowl Champion, Cowboys Ring of Honor member, and Pro Football Hall of Famer. Larry passed away suddenly while vacationing in Mexico with his family on Sunday. Known for his remarkable athleticism and unparalleled strength, Larry was one of the most respected offensive linemen in NFL history. His versatility and dependability were hallmarks of his career, inspiring countless players as a teammate, competitor, and winner.”
“Larry was deeply loved by his wife, Janelle, his daughters Jayla and Loriana, and his son, Larry III. The Jones family and the Cowboys extend their heartfelt condolences to the Allen family and grieve alongside Larry’s friends and teammates.”
Details regarding memorial services will be announced soon.
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Drafted in the second round of the 1994 NFL Draft from Sonoma State, Allen quickly demonstrated his exceptional combination of size, strength, and surprising speed. A memorable moment from his rookie year was during a Monday Night Football game when he chased down Saints linebacker Darion Conner after an interception, a feat that astonished the commentators and fans alike.
Known for his incredible strength, Allen famously bench-pressed over 700 pounds in the early 2000s. His dominance on the field was further highlighted by his versatility, transitioning from guard to tackle and back, earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors at both positions.
Allen’s legacy was cemented when he was named one of the seven guards on the NFL’s Top 100 players list in 2019, solidifying his status as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
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