Former University at Albany defensive lineman and 2024 NFL draft prospect Amitral "AJ" Simon has died at the age of 25, the school announced on Wednesday.
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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," Albany said in a statement. "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."
A cause of death was not announced.
"Two joyous year coaching and becoming friends with AJ Simon," Albany head coach <a data-i13n="cpos:1;pos:1" href="https://twitter.com/CoachGGattuso">Greg Gattuso posted on X</a>. "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 that saw him earn 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 pre-draft visit with the New England Patriots last week.
Off the field, Simon made the CAA's Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll, which requires students to keep at least a 3.0 grade-point average.
