Eric Allen
A cornerback out of Arizona State University, Eric Allen was chosen with the 30th overall pick in the 1988 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. His career spanned 14 seasons, which included 217 games for the Eagles (1988-1994), New Orleans Saints (1995-97) and Oakland Raiders (1998- 2001).
With five interceptions as a rookie, Allen’s impact was felt immediately, earning him a spot on the 1988 PFWA All-Rookie Team.
His best statistical season came in his second year in Philadelphia, when he totaled eight interceptions, a career high. Allen earned first-team All-Pro honors and was selected to play in the Pro Bowl.
Allen led his team in total interceptions seven times, four seasons in Philadelphia and three in Oakland.
His four interceptions returned for a touchdown in 1993 were tied for the most in NFL history at the time of his retirement in 2001. United Press International (UPI) named Allen the Defensive Player of the Year in 1993 after he led the league in total interception yards and touchdowns.
After being traded to the Raiders in 1998, he helped the franchise win the AFC West in back-to-back seasons, which had not been done since the early 1980s.
His eight career interception returns for touchdowns were tied for third most in league history after his final season.
A six-time Pro Bowler (1989, 1991-95), Allen also earned second-team All-Pro honors twice (1989, 1993). For his career, he played in 217 regular-season games (214 starts) and nine playoff games, recording four interceptions — one of them a pick-six — in the postseason.
His career totals include 54 interceptions for 826 yards and eight scores.
Allen was inducted into the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame in 2011 and named to their 75th Anniversary Team in 2007.