Former Baltimore Ravens OT Jonathan Ogden once said, “I don’t know if I scared people, but I saw defensive linemen who suddenly had cramps when they had to face Allen.” Larry Allen was one of the physically strongest players in the NFL who was picked by the Dallas Cowboys as a second-round pick in 1994. 

After playing in the NFL for 14 seasons and leaving his mark among teammates, opponents, and fans alike, the legend succumbed to a sudden and unexpected death on June 2 while on a family vacation in Mexico. He was 52. Among the long list of tributes from well-wishers, Warren Sapp also takes the platform to immortalize the greatness of Larry Allen.  

Warren Sapp offers a heartwarming tribute to Larry Allen

In Thee Pregame Show Network’s Episode 6 of Wednesdays with Warren on YouTube, Warren Sapp expressed how the death of Larry Allen affected him. He said, “That’s hitting me home on both levels because Larry Allen was the standard by which I judge every offensive guard.” Both of them played in the NFL at the same time. While Allen joined the NFL in 1994, Sapp followed in 1995 and they both retired in 2007 despite never playing together on the same team. 

The connection that Warren Sapp has with Allen was that they were among the class of 2013 inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Larry Allen appeared in 203 games with the Cowboys and played every position on the OL except center. His former teammate Troy Aikman also expressed his heartbreak over the dreary news on X saying, “He was a HoF offensive lineman that dominated opponents regardless of the position he played. Off the field, he was a gentle giant that loved his family. Rest in Peace LA.” His loss not only affected his family but the world of football as many loved ones shared their tributes.

Larry Allens is immortalized in memories of well-wishers

A first-team All-Pro for seven consecutive seasons, Larry Allen made a huge impression in the NFL. Following his death, the Cowboys released a heartfelt statement to honor him. The statement reads, “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 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.”

During his playing career, Allen was named to the Pro Bowl 11 times and won a Super Bowl with the Cowboys in 1995 before spending his final two seasons with the San Francisco 49ers. His second team also honored him in their tribute as they stated, “Our thoughts and condolences are with the Allen family.” He also made it to the NFL’s top-100 list in 2019 with his versatility to play right tackle, left tackle, and right guard aside from his primary role as a left guard. The world truly lost a legend who will be remembered in the hearts of loved ones.