Eric Allen secures Hall of Fame induction on his 19th attempt: Remarkable Eagles player ranked amongst the greatest interception return men in history.
Eric Allen: A Legendary Cornerback Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Eric Allen, a standout cornerback who spent 14 seasons in the NFL, has been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Allen's career, which spanned from 1988 to 2001, saw him play for the Philadelphia Eagles, New Orleans Saints, and Oakland Raiders.
Throughout his career, Allen recorded 54 interceptions for 826 yards and eight touchdowns. He also recovered seven fumbles. His impressive stats earned him six Pro Bowl selections (1989, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995) and a First Team All-Pro selection in 1989.
Allen holds notable records such as tying the NFL record for most interception returns for touchdowns in a season (four in 1993) and ranks 21st all-time with 54 interceptions. He also ranks 11th in NFL history with eight interception returns for touchdowns. Remarkably, Allen's 34 interceptions with the Philadelphia Eagles are tied with Brian Dawkins and Bill Bradley for the most in Eagles history.
Allen's impact was not just limited to stats. He was a key contributor to the defenses of three NFL teams, earning a reputation for exceptional ball skills and return ability. His Hall of Fame induction reflects his standing as a top cornerback and his durability and impact over a long career.
In his enshrinement speech, Allen expressed gratitude to the Philadelphia Eagles organization. He also mentioned his four career interceptions and a pick-six in the postseason, pushing his career total to 58 interceptions and nine interception returns for a touchdown in his career (including postseason).
Allen's induction into Canton marks the end of a long-awaited recognition of his standout career. Among the 33 players that have 50+ interceptions, 27 are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Allen joins this esteemed group, solidifying his place as one of the best cornerbacks and interception returners in NFL history.
[1] Pro Football Hall of Fame - Eric Allen Player Profile [2] ESPN - Eric Allen Career Stats [3] NFL.com - Eric Allen Pro Bowl Selections [4] Pro Football Reference - Eric Allen Career Stats [5] Philadelphia Eagles - Eric Allen Career Stats
- Eric Allen's impressive NFL career, which spanned 14 seasons and included stints with the Philadelphia Eagles, New Orleans Saints, and Oakland Raiders, culminated in his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
- Allen's exceptional play on the field during his career earned him six Pro Bowl selections and a First Team All-Pro selection in 1989.
- In addition to these accolades, Allen holds records such as tying the NFL record for most interception returns for touchdowns in a season (four in 1993) and ranks 21st all-time with 54 interceptions.
- Allen's induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame solidifies his place as one of the best cornerbacks and interception returners in NFL history, joining the ranks of the 27 other players with 50+ interceptions who have already been enshrined.
