Albany defensive lineman Amitral “AJ” Simon, who hoped to be selected in the 2024 NFL draft, has died, the university announced Wednesday.
He was 25 years old.
No cause of death was provided.
“The UAlbany football program was deeply saddened to learn this morning of the passing of former student-athlete Amitral “AJ” Simon,” the football team said in a statement Wednesday.
“AJ was a great young man and an even better teammate throughout his time at UAlbany. He has been a role model on and off the field, serving as a pillar of this program over the past two years. He will be deeply missed.
The team also shared a post on X with the caption: “We love you, 8” with a purple heart emoji.
Simon, a native of Tobyhanna, Pa., began his collegiate career at Division II Bloomsburg University of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference – where he was a 2021 first-team All-Conference honoree – before playing his last two seasons for the Great Danes.
He dominated in his senior season at Albany, racking up 55 total tackles – 37 solo – along with 12.5 sacks as the Great Danes went 11-4 en route to their first-ever Coastal title Athletic Association before reaching the semifinals of the 2023 FCS playoffs.
For his part, Simon came away with numerous accolades, including All-CAA First Team Defense, FCS Football Central First Team All-American, Stats Perform FCS All-America Third Team and Phil Steele All-CAA First Team.
“Happy two (years) coaching and becoming friends with AJ Simon,” Albany head coach Greg Gattuso wrote on X. “My prayers are dedicated to the Simon family. I love you AJ and I will always have a special place in my heart for #8.
Simon announced his decision in December to enter the NFL Draft in a statement shared on his social media, and on April 1, Simon practiced at the Albany Pro Day in hopes of joining a team of the NFL.
According to Pro Football Talk, Simon had a preliminary visit with the Patriots last week, with ESPN ranking him as the 448th overall prospect in this year’s draft.
One of Simon’s teammates, linebacker Jahlil Johnson, said the defensive lineman made an impact in many lives.
“I have gone to war against you and your brother…what is understood does not need to be explained. You left an impact on everyone you touched,” Johnson wrote on X. “You were truly a special type of person who could light up any room so happy to have shared a relationship with you.
New York Post
