Legendary NFL Offensive Lineman Larry Allen Dies Unexpectedly

Dallas Cowboys Hall of Fame offensive lineman Larry Allen passed away unexpectedly over the weekend while on vacation with his family in Mexico. He was 52 years old.

The 6’3”, 330-pound, 11-time Pro Bowl pick is widely considered to be one of the best offensive lineman in the history of the National Football League. He was voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013.

He played most of his career with the Cowboys from 1994 to 2005 and played his final two seasons with the San Francisco 49ers.

“Larry, known for his great athleticism and incredible strength, was one of the most respected, accomplished offensive linemen to ever play in the NFL,” the team said in a statement. “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.”

“He was deeply loved and cared for by his wife, Janelle — whom he referred to as his heart and soul — his daughters Jayla and Loriana and son, Larry III. 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.”

Former Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman posted on X: “Just received the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved teammate Larry Allen. 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.”

Former Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith said that news of Allen’s passing “just breaks my heart.”

“I’m at a loss of words right now. Such a good dude, great player, super person,” Smith said. “The one thing about Larry Allen, I know. He had a big heart and he lived life to the fullest. A man of very few words but on the football field was a beast. And [he] will be sorely missed.”