Today’s interior defensive linemen are thankful that Larry Allen has now been enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame instead of lining up for the Dallas Cowboys next season.
Allen was a mauler who paved the way for Emmett Smith to become the NFL’s all-time leader in rushing yards. Although he entered the league out of lowly Sonoma State, Allen lined up at every position except center along the Cowboys’ offensive line.
The man with the 700+ pound bench press was selected to six All-Pro teams, eleven Pro-Bowl teams, and won a Super Bowl with the Cowboys in 1995.
A tremendous pass protector as well, Allen was choked up throughout his speech. However, as steroid discussions dominate the headlines, the dominant guard noted that his strength was “natural.”
Cowboys’ owner Jerry Jones presented for one of the all-time great offensive linemen who was his second round draft choice in 1994.