Amitral “AJ” Simon Jr., a gifted football player and defensive lineman for the Albany Great Danes at the University of Albany, tragically passed away at the young age of 25 on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.
Originally from Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania, Simon had an impressive college football career, amassing a total of 55 tackles and 12.5 sacks in the 2023 season.
Prior to his time at the University of Albany, Simon attended Bloomsburg University where he was part of the 2021 First Team All-Conference team. He was a standout player both on and off the field, serving as a role model for his teammates and the wider community.
The UAlbany football program shared the heartbreaking news of Simon’s passing in a post on X, expressing their deep sadness at the loss of such a talented and well-respected individual. His former teammates and coaches remembered him as a dedicated athlete and a supportive teammate who had made a lasting impact on the program.
Simon had been hoping to be selected in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, according to ESPN. Despite the promising prospects for his professional football career, his untimely death has left a void in the hearts of many who knew him.
The cause of AJ Simon’s death remains unknown at this time, but his legacy as a talented athlete and a beloved member of the UAlbany community will live on.
