Former Minnesota Vikings and Kansas City Chiefs star Jared Allen has been enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but his tearful induction speech showed he doesn't consider that honor his biggest accomplishment in life.

The legendary pass rusher and father of two grew emotional at the end of his speech on Aug. 2 when he reflected on the support of his wife, Amy, and his hopes for his daughters, Brinley and Lakelyn.

Wearing his trademark cowboy hat and his Hall of Fame gold jacket onstage, the California native addressed his wife and daughters directly as they sat in the crowd at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

He said he was told while he and his wife were in premarital counseling that there are only two types of people — “boat anchors who drag you down” or “people who elevate you.”

“You are a true game elevator,” Allen told Amy. “You are one of the smartest people I know. I am in awe of you every single day, and I love you more than life itself.”

Allen, 43, then spoke to his daughters.

"Through this process, the word legacy has been talked about a lot," he said. "The Hall often says they're here to tell my story.

"Well, I'm here to tell you two, you are my greatest accomplishments. When I get called home to heaven one day, if all they talk about is this gold jacket, my career, then I failed miserably as a father, a husband and a friend."

His daughters wiped tears away as he continued.

"You two are my legacy," he said. "You are both so talented, and I cannot wait to see what you both decide to do and to conquer this world. So always put Christ first, find your why, dream big dreams and always pursue greatness in whatever you do."

Former NFL player Jared Allen poses with his bust during an induction ceremony at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025.David Dermer / AP

Allen, a five-time Pro Bowler who finished with 136 sacks, was one of four retired greats inducted into the 2025 class of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

He was joined by Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Eric Allen (no relation), Green Bay Packers wide receiver Sterling Sharpe and San Diego/L.A. Chargers tight end Antonio Gates. Sharpe joined his brother, former Denver Broncos tight end Shannon Sharpe, as the only set of brothers to both reach the Pro Football Hall of Fame.