The NFL world mourned the loss of a young man who was set to potentially be drafted in this years 2024 Draft. Amitral “AJ” Simon tragically passed away.
A former defensive end for the University of Albany, he passed at the young age of 25 years old. His entire team and community mourns the loss of a such a young life.
University of Albany Mourns The loss Of AJ Simon
Simon’s coach, Greg Gattuso, was very emotional about the loss:
“Two joyous years coaching and becoming friends with AJ Simon,” Gattuso wrote. “My prayers are dedicated to the Simon family. I love you AJ and will always have a special place in my heart for #8.”
“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.”
Tragic: 2024 #NFL draft prospect AJ Simon has tragically passed away, reportedly due to heart attack.
💔💔💔
AJ was a pass rusher at University at Albany and had dreams of being drafted this year. He was just 25-years-old. pic.twitter.com/fQy4SHPxr7
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) April 17, 2024
TRAGEDY! AJ Simon, DE prospect in the 2024 NFL draft, has passed away.
He was coming up on a day he worked so hard for and tragically lost his life to a heart attack just a week before. Just wow! May he RIP 🙏❤️ pic.twitter.com/qSopoSXsLv
— 49ers & NFL News 24/7 (@49ersSportsTalk) April 17, 2024
NFL Fans Mourn the Loss On Social Media
The NFL world was deeply saddened by the news of Simon’s passing, and everyone took to social media to share their condolences and prayers to the family.
“Deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of A.J. Simon, an Albany football player and NFL draft prospect. Rest in peace,” KPRC2’s Aaron Wilson wrote.
“Simon was a fun player to study and the coaches raved about him on and off the field,” The Athletic’s Dane Brugler said. “Thoughts and prayers to his family.”
“This is awful,” a fan wrote. “My thoughts are with his loved ones. Heart-breaking to read.”
“Absolutely gut-wrenching news,” WTEN’s Tommy Valentine said. “Had the pleasure of covering and speaking with AJ at the UAlbany Pro Day just weeks ago. Truly a ‘gentle giant’ and a remarkable talent on the football field. Thoughts and prayers with his family and the UAlbany football family.”
“Awful news,” football coach Chris Simoneau said. “Way too young.”
“AJ was a tremendous young man and even better teammate throughout his time at UAlbany,” the school wrote. “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 had an incredible last season with Albany getting 12 sacks in his senior year. May he rest in Peace.
Thoughts and prayers out to the Simon family and the Albany Football Family. AJ was just up here at UB for the Pro Day. Didn't know him but kid was a great player. Man life is short!!!! https://t.co/bsi5PVNlYm
— Coach Caleb Haynes (@Biggame_24) April 17, 2024
God brought back home my brudda today love you forever fam 🕊️ #8 pic.twitter.com/i5iw0jf8s7
— Aamir Hall (@ajtheshow) April 17, 2024