In a heartfelt Instagram tribute, Jayla Allen, the eldest daughter of the late NFL icon Larry Allen, expressed her profound grief following his unexpected death at age 52. The legendary Dallas Cowboys offensive lineman passed away while on vacation with his family in Mexico. “I don’t know how to write this message and what to say. I am in complete shock,” Jayla wrote, capturing her disbelief and sorrow.
On Monday, the sports world was shaken by the news of Allen’s passing, which was officially announced by the Cowboys on behalf of Jayla and her family. Allen, revered for his unmatched strength and athleticism, was considered one of the finest offensive linemen in NFL history. His sudden death has left fans and family members alike in mourning.
Jayla’s Instagram post featured a series of photographs reflecting cherished moments of her childhood with her father, from her birth to significant events such as Larry’s induction into the NFL Hall of Fame in 2013. At that time, a then-student at Pepperdine University, Jayla had the honor of assisting her father with his Hall of Fame induction speech.
In her emotional tribute, Jayla remembered her father as a man who would do anything for their family, which included her mother, Janelle, and siblings Larry III and Loriana. “I feel completely broken and don’t know where to go from here. The pain of losing you will stay with me forever. You were my best friend and twin,” she expressed, highlighting their profound bond and similarities that always brought smiles to their faces.
The Cowboys’ statement praised Allen for his versatility and dependability, qualities that defined his storied career and served as an inspiration to many in the sport. “His versatility and dependability were also signature parts of his career. Through that, he continued to serve as inspiration for many other players defining what it meant to be a great teammate, competitor, and winner,” the team noted.
Tributes poured in from former teammates, including NFL greats Troy Aikman, Michael Irvin, and Emmitt Smith, who shared their memories and condolences. Smith, particularly moved, wrote on X, “No words to describe the feeling of losing a brother, teammate and most importantly, a friend. A beast on the field and a gentle soul off. Rest in peace to a true Cowboy and one of the greatest — you will be truly missed.”
Jayla concluded her tribute by assuring that her father was now at peace, presumably with his own late mother. “I know you are in peace and with granny. I love you always and forever! Rest in peace.” The sports community continues to remember Larry Allen not only for his fearsome presence on the field but also for his gentle and loving nature it.