Dallas Cowboys legends and Hall of Famers Emmitt Smith and Troy Aikman took to social media on Monday to mourn the death of their former teammate and fellow Hall of Famer, Larry Allen, after he passed away on Sunday at the age of 52.
Allen, who passed away while on vacation with his family in Mexico, according to a statement from the team, played a big role in Smith's ascension to the all-time rushing yards record after blocking for him over nine seasons with the Cowboys.
An emotional Smith shared his heartbreak over the news in a video posted on social media. He called Allen "one of the best offensive linemen I've ever played with" and was understandably "at a loss for words."
Emmitt Smith speaking on Larry Allen who suddenly passed away today at the age of just 52.#DallasCowboys #RestInGlory #BigLA pic.twitter.com/6cIQLC9wAb
— ✭ Your_Guy_Nix ✭ (@Your_Guy_Nix) June 3, 2024
"The one thing about Larry Allen I know, he had a big heart," Smith said. "And he lived life to the fullest. A man of very few words, but on the football field was a beast, and will be sorely missed."
Aikman also posted to social media to share his heartbreak over the news.
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💔🙏🏼
— Troy Aikman (@TroyAikman) June 3, 2024
Allen put together a legendary career filled with so many memorable moments. Over 14 seasons in the NFL, Allen notched 11 Pro Bowl nods and six first-team All-Pro selections while also winning a Super Bowl with the Cowboys.
After finishing out his incredible career with the San Francisco 49ers, Allen signed a one-day contract to retire with the Cowboys in 2009. He was then rightly a first-ballot Hall of Famer in 2013.
Our condolences go out to Allen's family and friends. His memory will live on in the hearts and minds of football fans everywhere.
