Former University at Albany defensive lineman and 2024 NFL draft prospect Amitral “AJ” Simon has died at the age of 25, the school announced Wednesday.
“The UAlbany football program was deeply saddened to learn this morning of the passing of former student-athlete Amitral “AJ” Simon,” Albany said in a statement. “AJ was a great young man and an even better teammate during his time at UAlbany. He was a role model both on and off the field and served as a pillar of this program over the past two years. He will be greatly missed.”
A cause of death was not announced.
“Two joyful years as a coach and becoming friends with Albany head coach AJ Simon Greg Gattuso posted on X. “My prayers are dedicated to the Simon family. I love you AJ and will always have a special place in my heart.”
Simon played two seasons at Albany and declared for the 2024 NFL draft in December. He was ranked as the 448th prospect by ESPN after a season in which he earned first-team All-CAA honors. In 15 games, he recorded 55 tackles and 12.5 sacks while helping the Great Danes to an 11-4 record and their first-ever conference title.
According to NBC, Simon had a preliminary visit to the New England Patriots last week.
Off the field, Simon earned the CAA’s Academic Honor Roll, which requires students to maintain a minimum 3.0 grade point average.
