Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith pay classy tributes to late Cowboys great Larry Allen

The Dallas Cowboys' fan base is reckoning with the passing of legendary offensive lineman Larry Allen, who died suddenly on Monday at the young age of 52, per a statement from the team. The cause of Allen's death is not yet known.

One of the most decorated offensive linemen in NFL history, Allen is one of the greatest players in Cowboys history regardless of position. He wasn't drafted until the end of Dallas' dynasty in 1994, but he started 16 games at right guard during the team's last Super Bowl triumph a year later in 1995.

Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith and Michael Irvin, who adopted "The Triplets" moniker, are the most recognized players of the Cowboys' historic four-year run in the 1990s when they rattled off Super Bowl victories. However, much of their success can be attributed to their arresting offensive line.

As the best blocker of the bunch, Allen was imperative to Dallas' dynasty. His former teammates recognize that, including Troy Aikman, who penned a heartfelt tribute to Allen in the wake of his sudden passing.

Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith pay homage to late Cowboys legend Larry Allen

Allen and Aikman shared a locker room for seven years in Dallas (1994-2000). It's no surprise that Aikman was voted to the Pro Bowl in three consecutive years after Allen was drafted in 1994. Aikman clearly admired Allen's dominance on the gridiron, but it was a classy touch by the Hall of Fame quarterback to underline Allen's love for his family and graciousness off the field.

Like Aikman, Emmitt Smith was heartbroken to learn of Allen's passing. While Aikman put his thoughts into words, Smith delivered his raw reaction via an Instagram video. Smith was visibly choked up and fought back tears while paying homage to his late former teammate.

"Life is very fragile and we're only here for a moment," said Smith. "My heart is just broken. We need to make the best out of every moment and not take people granted. All I can say is live life to the fullest that you can.

"The one thing about Larry that I know is he had a big heart and he lived life to the fullest. A man of very few words, but on the football field he was a beast and will be sorely missed."

That's a beautiful and poignant tribute from Smith, the NFL's all-time leading rusher. Smith and Allen were teammates on the Cowboys for nine seasons (1994-2002). During that span, Smith was a two-time First-All-Pro, a rushing champ in 2005, and a four-time Pro Bowler. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in eight of those seasons.

The pain in Smith's eyes while he eulogized Allen and described the fragility of life just hammers home the magnitude of the loss. It's a devastating loss for the Cowboys franchise. There's no other way to put it.

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