UAlbany Football Star, NFL Prospect AJ Simon Dead At 25

A tragic loss hit the NFL community. NFL Draft prospect AJ Simon, 25, out of UAlbany, passed away on Wednesday. 

UAlbany Football's social media accounts reported Simon's death, but they did not provide a cause of death.

"Forever a Great Dane," the Danes' caption read. The post also included a commemorative note to the young football player who helped carry the program to an FCS semifinal appearance last year. Their statement on Simon's death read:

"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."

Simon prepared to enter the NFL Draft after a stellar two-season career at University at Albany. He declared for the draft after amassing 17.5 sacks in two years at UAlbany.

The football community mourned Simon. Members of UAlbany, including football coach Greg Gattuso, remembered Simon with immense respect for the departed prospect.

"My prayers are dedicated to the Simon family," Gattuso commented on Wednesday. "I love you AJ and will always have a special place in my heart for #8."

Simon began his collegiate career at Bloomsburg University (Pa.).

Rest In Peace

Albany Great Danes Riddell Football helmet. (Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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