NFL prospect, former Great Dane AJ Simon passes away at 25
ALBANY, NY (NEWS10) -- The UAlbany community was dealt a heartbreaking blow Wednesday morning. Former UAlbany football player Amitral "AJ" Simon passed away at the age of 25.
After tallying 12.5 sacks last season, Simon had declared for the NFL Draft. He was hoping to hear his named called a week from Thursday. The 25-year old had participated in the UAlbany pro day just three weeks ago.
The UAlbany football team released the following statement on X Wednesday afternoon:
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.
No cause of death was announced, but a UAlbany spokesperson told NEWS10 Simon passed peacefully.
Simon made the All-CAA first-team last season, helping to lead the Great Danes to the FCS semifinals, the best finish in program history. The Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania native began his career at Bloomsburg University, before playing two seasons at UAlbany.
Head coach Greg Gattuso posted the following statement to X.
Two joyous years 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.