The sports world was left in shock after news broke that Dallas Cowboys Hall of Famer Larry Allen passed away suddenly while on a family vacation in Mexico. Allen, a dominant presence on the Cowboys’ offensive line through the 1990s and early 2000s, was just 52 years old. The cause of his death remains undisclosed.
Jayla Allen, his daughter, expressed the overwhelming grief she felt in an Instagram post on Monday. Sharing memories and photos from her life with her father, Jayla described her heartbreak. “I am in complete shock. I feel like this is a nightmare and I can’t wake up. This doesn’t feel real, dad. I am heartbroken and don’t know where to go from this,” she wrote.
Allen, renowned for his strength and agility, spent 12 of his 14 NFL seasons with the Cowboys after being drafted in the second round out of Sonoma State. His presence on the offensive line helped block for legendary running back Emmitt Smith, contributing to a Cowboys era that saw three Super Bowl championships. Allen’s achievements include 11 Pro Bowl selections and an induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013.
Several of Allen’s former teammates shared their grief upon hearing the news. Troy Aikman, the Cowboys’ Super Bowl-winning quarterback, took to social media to express his condolences. “Just received the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved teammate Larry Allen,” Aikman wrote. “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💔🙏🏼.”
Emmitt Smith, visibly emotional, paid tribute to Allen in a heartfelt video posted on Instagram. Remembering his teammate fondly, he said, “Such a good dude… great player, super person. It just breaks my heart. Life is very fragile, and we’re only here for a moment. We need to make the best out of every moment and not take people for granted.”
Jayla’s post highlighted Allen’s role as a father and friend. “I was blessed with the best father who loved me unconditionally,” she wrote. “You would do anything for our family, and I am forever grateful. The pain of losing you will stay with me forever. You were my best friend and twin.”
Allen’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void not only in his family but in the Cowboys’ community and the NFL at large. His career, marked by a powerful on-field presence and an enduring legacy of kindness, is one that will be remembered for generations.
