Albany Football Star AJ Simon Tragically Dies at 25
Albany Football Star AJ Simon Tragically Dies at 25, Sending Shockwaves Ahead of NFL Draft, Albany Football Sensation AJ Simon, Aged 25, Tragically Passes Away Just One Week Ahead of NFL Draft,
In a statement, the collegiate football team expressed, He was an exceptional young man and an even more outstanding teammate during his tenure at UAlbany.
Former University at Albany defensive lineman Amitral “AJ” Simon tragically passed away at the young age of 25, just one week before the highly anticipated 2024 NFL Draft, which he had announced his entry into back in December 2023.
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. pic.twitter.com/vps8tqA5O3
— Greg Gattuso (@CoachGGattuso) April 17, 2024
The University at Albany football program shared the heartbreaking news via its official social media account, formerly known as Twitter, on Wednesday, April 17. In their statement, they expressed deep sorrow over Simon’s untimely passing, describing him as an exceptional individual and teammate during his time with the team. Simon was hailed as a role model both on and off the field, serving as a vital asset to the program over the past two years. The team concluded their tribute by expressing profound grief over his loss.
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Head football coach Greg Gattuso also took to social media to remember Simon fondly, reminiscing about the two years they spent together and the friendship they developed. He dedicated his prayers to the Simon family, expressing his love for AJ and pledging to cherish their memories forever.
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. pic.twitter.com/vps8tqA5O3
— Greg Gattuso (@CoachGGattuso) April 17, 2024
Taylor O’Connor, the team’s director of digital content and communications, shared a touching anecdote about Simon’s kindness and appreciation. Despite his impending NFL Draft preparations, Simon would reach out to O’Connor for edits and was always gracious and thankful for the assistance. O’Connor fondly recalled their interactions, including Simon’s promise to remember him even after making it to the NFL.
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Simon’s collegiate journey began at Bloomsburg University before he transferred to the University at Albany, where he garnered numerous accolades for his outstanding performance on the field. He was recognized as a 2023 All-CAA first-team defensive selection, Phil Steele All-CAA first-team selection, and FCS Football Central First Team All-American honoree. Additionally, Simon excelled academically, earning a spot on the 2023 Fall CAA Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll for maintaining a GPA between 3.0 and 3.7.
We love you, 8 💜 pic.twitter.com/OhpBlPXvmr
— UAlbany Football (@UAlbanyFootball) April 17, 2024
Simon’s passing is a profound loss for the University at Albany community, the football program, and the wider football world. His legacy as a talented athlete and a compassionate individual will continue to inspire and resonate with many. Albany Football Star AJ Simon Tragically Dies at 25
