Cowboys legend Emmitt Smith shares heartfelt Larry Allen tribute

Emmitt Smith shared a heartfelt tribute to fellow Dallas Cowboys legend Larry Allen following Allen's sudden death.

Oct 10, 1999; Philadelphia, PA, USA; FILE PHOTO: Dallas Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith (22) follows the blocking Larry Allen (73) against the Philadelphia Eagles. / James D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Dallas Cowboys legend Larry Allen shockingly passed away over the weekend at age 52.

Since news of the Pro Football Hall of Famer's passing, a number of tributes have come out from fans, media members who covered Allen, and those he has played alongside.

Fellow Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith, who Allen cleared running lanes for throughout his career, broke his silence on Allen's passing with his own heartfelt tribute after taking a day to process the news.

RELATED: Larry Allen, Dallas Cowboys legend, dies suddenly: Tributes pour in from fans

No words to describe the feeling of losing a brother, teammate and most importantly, a friend. Someone who always put others first.

A beast on field and a gentle soul off. Rest in peace to a true Cowboy and one of greatest —you will be truly missed. pic.twitter.com/ljCp2P0HgA

— Emmitt Smith (@EmmittSmith22) June 4, 2024

Smith fought back tears after learning the news the day prior.

“Such a good dude. Great player. Super person … It just breaks my heart. I know life is very fragile and we’re only here for a moment," Smith said. "We need to make the best out of every moment and not take people for granted.

“All I can say is, live your life to the fullest that you can, love those that are closest to you, love those that are not near you as best as you can.”

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Smith, the league's all-time rushing leader and a three-time Super Bowl champion, led the NFL in rushing yards four times with Allen paving the way. He also was the league leader in rushing touchdowns for three seasons.

In their final season together in Dallas, Smith was the NFL scoring leader.

Allen had a profound impact on many people throughout his career and life, and he will certainly be missed.

Allen is survived by his wife, Janelle -- "whom he referred to as his heart and soul" -- his daughters Jayla and Lariana, and son, Larry III.

Along with his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction and Super Bowl championship, Allen was inducted into the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor, named to 11 Pro Bowls, and a seven-time First-team All-Pro.