Eric Allen Biography

Eric Allen, the six time Pro Bowler now in his 14th pro season is the oldest Raiders player at age 36. Starting opposite Charles Woodson in the defensive backfield, he is unquestionably the leader of the Oakland Raiders defense. Allen who was a standout player for the Philadelphia Eagles for 7 seasons and the New Orleans Saints for 3 is the only NFL player to run back three interceptions for scores in two seasons. He also did it in 1993 when he was with the Philadelphia Eagles. Thru the 2001 season Allen played in 214 of a possible 217 games. He's had 54 interceptions for a total of 826 return yards and 9 touchdowns.

He has had an interception in five of the last six games as the Raiders (13-4) head into the AFC title game against the Baltimore Ravens (14-4). "We've got a great veteran player here in Eric Allen, a guy that's backed it up for a decade. A guy that's been outstanding for us down the stretch," Raiders head coach Jon Gruden said.

When Allen blew out his knee during the 1999 season it looked to be the sad end to a great career. The odds were stacked against him. Allen was 33. And he played a position that is unforgiving to players who lose a step. "It came down to if I wanted to play or not. That was the question," Allen said. "It wasn't a matter whether anyone else believed in me." Allen wanted to play. After a year getting back into his groove, Allen had a stellar 2001 season, with seven interceptions -- including a team-record three for touchdowns.

His teammates honored him with the first annual Eric Turner award for the Raiders' most outstanding defensive player. The award was created in the memory of the Oakland free safety who died in the offseason of stomach cancer.

When Allen started the rather painful rehabilitation process, even though his future was uncertain, "There were a couple of instances in rehab when I thought about quitting" he said. "But maybe five or six months into it, I thought maybe I'd be able to come back." His children played an important role in his decision. "I have two little boys, Austin and Hunter, who wouldn't let me quit," he said. Allen didn't quit and he hasn't lost a step. Even if he had, it wouldn't matter. He's not that kind of cornerback, he said. "I never really based my playing on speed alone," he said. "I'm more of a studier, if you are in the right place at the right time, it doesn't really matter how fast you run."

Some of his accomplishments are:

• Six time Pro Bowler
• 14 pro NFL seasons
• Only NFL player to run back three interceptions for scores in two seasons
• Has played in 214 of a possible 217 games
• Honored with the first annual Eric Turner award for the Raiders' most outstanding defensive player