NFL Legend Larry Allen Passes Away at 52

NFL Hall of Famer and former Dallas Cowboys player Larry Allen tragically passed away at the age of 52 while vacationing with his family in Mexico. The news of Allen’s sudden death has shocked the football community and fans alike.

Allen, a standout athlete from Sonoma State, made history as the first student-athlete from the university to be drafted into the NFL. His impressive career spanned from 1994 to 2005, during which he played a pivotal role in the Cowboys’ success, including a Super Bowl win in 1995.

Throughout his illustrious career, Allen was a 11-time Pro Bowler and was honored with induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013. His legacy with the Cowboys is immortalized in the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor at AT&T Stadium.

During his collegiate years at Sonoma State, Allen excelled on the field, earning All-American honors and being named the Offensive Player of the Year for the Northern California Athletic Conference in 1993. His talent and dedication to the sport were evident even before his NFL stardom.

Frank Scalercio, Allen’s former coach at Sonoma State, expressed his deep sadness at the loss of the legendary player, highlighting Allen’s impact both on and off the field. Scalercio praised Allen’s character and sportsmanship, reminiscing about their time together at SSU.

Allen’s contributions to football extended beyond his playing days, with his enshrinement in both the Sonoma State Athletics Hall of Fame and the NCAA Division II Football Hall of Fame. Despite the differences between Division II and Division I football, Allen cherished his time at SSU as a platform to showcase his skills.

The football community, including former teammates like Emmitt Smith and Troy Aikman, mourn the loss of a true legend. Allen leaves behind his wife, Janelle, and their three children, Jayla, Loriana, and Larry III, as his legacy continues to inspire future generations of athletes.