Dallas Cowboys offensive lineman Larry Allen died suddenly Sunday while vacationing with his family in Mexico, the team announced.
He was 52 years old.
“Known for his incredible athleticism and incredible strength, Larry was one of the most respected and accomplished offensive linemen to ever play in the NFL. His versatility and reliability were also a signature part of his career. Through that, he continues to serve as an inspiration,” the team said. “For so many other players, he defines what it means to be a great teammate, competitor and winner,” in a statement.
“He was deeply loved and cared for by his wife Janelle – whom he referred to as his heart and soul – his daughters Jayla and Laurieanna and his son Larry III. The Jones family and the Cowboys extend their deepest condolences, thoughts and affections. My prayers go out to the Allen family and I grieve with the many other friends and Cowboys teammates who also loved Larry “.
The Cowboys said memorial service arrangements will be announced in the near future.
Allen was a second-round pick out of Sonoma State in 1994 and quickly became one of the most dominant offensive linemen in the NFL.
He was selected to the Pro Bowl 11 times and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013. He played for the Cowboys from 1994-2005, winning the Super Bowl in 1995. He spent his final two seasons with the San Francisco 49ers. .
Allen overcame a difficult upbringing in Compton, California. He was stabbed 12 times while protecting one of his brothers. He attended four different high schools before attending Butte College. He later starred at Sonoma State where the Cowboys found the raw but talented Allen and took him with the 46th pick.
He protected Cowboys quarterbacks from Troy Aikman to Tony Romo and once switched from guard to tackle in games. He played right tackle, right guard and left tackle but mostly starred at left guard and was a first-team All-Pro six times. He was named to the 2000s All-Decade team.
His feats of strength in the Cowboys weight room were legendary, where he bench-pressed 700 pounds. His physical speed astonished many, including chasing down New Orleans Saints linebacker Darrion Conner on an interception return in 1994.
“Coffee ninja. Web fan. Hipster-friendly beer enthusiast. Professional creator.”