Former Albany defensive lineman AJ Simon, who hoped to be picked in the 2024 NFL draft, passed away at 25. The school announced this sad news on Wednesday.

In a message shared on social media, Albany expressed deep sadness over losing their former student-athlete, Amitral 'AJ' Simon. They described him as a fantastic young man and an exceptional teammate at Albany. Simon was seen as a role model on and off the field and had become an integral part of the football program over the last two years. His absence will be deeply felt by everyone who knew him.

The cause of Simon's death has not been disclosed yet Simon had an impressive career, earning first-team All-CAA honors for his outstanding performance last season, where he recorded 55 tackles and 12.5 sacks. 

ESPN even ranked him as the 448th prospect for the upcoming NFL draft.

Originally from Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania, Simon had been a standout player for Albany for the past two seasons, transferring from Bloomsburg University at the start of his collegiate career.

Coach Gattuso concluded his message by reiterating his love and support for the Simon family and expressing his enduring fondness for AJ.

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