Tyler Smith on Larry Allen's 'tough' style

FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys were deeply saddened to learn of Larry Allen's passing on Monday. The 11-time Pro Bowl offensive lineman and Pro Football Hall of Fame member died on Sunday while vacationing in Mexico with his family.

The news came shortly after third-year offensive lineman Tyler Smith, who wears Allen's No. 73 and is often compared to the Ring of Honor member, spoke about his admiration for Allen. Since joining the Cowboys in 2022, Smith has shown versatility, playing both left tackle and left guard, much like Allen.

Smith, who had a close relationship with Allen, frequently expressed his respect for the legendary player.

"It's huge, for sure," Smith said last week. "Obviously, just knowing Larry and everything he did and how great he was. It's just my mission to be the best me I can be, to be the best Tyler Smith I can be every single day. Just improve, stay hungry, and never lose that passion. Just continue to get better."

Smith acknowledged Allen's toughness both on and off the field, a trait that had inspired him greatly.

"He almost died of meningitis when he was a kid," Smith said. "He's very tough, just a dawg. I've seen the tape, extremely athletic, and famous for the chasedown tackle against the Saints. One of the best pulling guards to maybe ever play in the NFL. Not many people are doing it like that anymore."

Had social media existed during Allen's playing days, his remarkable achievements in the weight room would have gone viral. Known for bench pressing 700 pounds, Allen is often regarded as the strongest player to ever play in the NFL. Smith humorously acknowledged this aspect of Allen's legacy.

"I tend to stay away," Smith said with a laugh. "I'll just let him have that for himself."