Former Albany defensive lineman AJ Simon, hopeful NFL Draft pick, dies at age 25

The cause of his death remains unknown.

Former Albany defensive lineman AJ Simon, hopeful NFL Draft pick, dies at age 25

AJ Simon (via ajsimon on Instagram)

Just one week before the NFL Draft 2024, tragedy has struck. Albany defensive end AJ Simon, who was an NFL hopeful passed away on Wednesday morning at the age of 25. The University of Albany issued a statement extending its thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Simon.

At this moment, the immediate cause of death has not been determined. Simon played a significant role in solidifying the Albany Great Dane’s defense as he recorded 12.5 sacks last season, he was working hard towards embarking on the next chapter of his life and playing football at a professional level.

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The UAlbany football program was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former student-athlete Amitral 'AJ' Simon this morning. AJ was a tremendous young man and even better teammate throughout his time at UAlbany. He was a role model both on and off the field, serving as a pillar to this program over the last two years. He will be profoundly missed.
University of Albany’s statement read

The New England Patriots were one of the teams considering drafting him.

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AJ Simon was ranked as the 448th prospect heading into the NFL Draft

The defensive lineman featured at number 448 overall in the latest draft rankings courtesy of ESPN. The 2023 All-CAA first-team defensive selection hailed from Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania. He spent the last two years playing for Albany after transferring from Bloomsburg University in the first year of his collegiate career.

AJ Simon
AJ Simon as #8 (via IMAGO)

The head coach of the Albany Great Danes, Greg Gattuso shared his condolences with his family while expressing shock over the untimely passing of Simon. 

Two joyous year coaching and becoming friends with AJ Simon. My prayers are dedicated to the Simon family. I love you AJ and will always have a special place in my heart for #8.
Greg Gattuso said

Zack McKinnell, the owner of FCS Football Central, also issued his condolences after receiving the tragic news. 

I'm still speechless since I received the news earlier today...Had the chance to sit down with AJ earlier this year and discuss his journey UAlbany. I want to send my prayers and condolences to the Simon family.
Zack McKinnell said

In his two years playing for Albany, Simon recorded 79 tackles and 16.5 sacks. It is unfortunate that his dream of playing in the NFL did not come to fruition.

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