Amitral “AJ” Simon Jr., a defensive lineman for the University at Albany football program, died on April 17 at age 25.

Simon was one of the players expected to hear his name called during the 2024 NFL Draft. He was a standout player for the Great Danes during the team’s trip to the FCS semifinals.

Playing primarily as an edge rusher, Simon recorded 17.5 sacks during his time in Albany, including 12.5 in the 2023 season. He helped the team finish the campaign with an 11-4 record.

Here’s more on Simon’s death ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft.

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NFL Draft prospect dies

The Albany football program announced Simon’s death in a social media post on April 17.

We love you, 8 💜 pic.twitter.com/OhpBlPXvmr

— UAlbany Football (@UAlbanyFootball) April 17, 2024

Forever a Great Dane pic.twitter.com/OoNxvLsqNb

— UAlbany Football (@UAlbanyFootball) April 17, 2024

“The UAlbany football program was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former student-athlete Amitral ‘AJ’ Simon this morning,” the school’s post read. “AJ was a tremendous young man and an even better teammate during his time at UAlbany. He was a role model both on and off the field, serving as a pillar of this program for the past two years. He will be deeply missed.”

The 6-foot-1, 267-pound running back touted as a possible late-round pick for the 2024 NFL Draft, according to The Athletic.

“The number one constant on his tape was effort, which has earned him a lot of attention from NFL teams in recent months,” said Dane Brugler of the Athletic. “I thought his competitive playing personality gave him a legitimate chance to stay on the field.” the NFL, either as a late-round draft pick or as a priority free agent. “His passing is heartbreaking news for many people, including the NFL community.”

AJ Simon cause of death

The cause of Simon’s death was not revealed at the time of the news. There has been no update with the NFL Draft starting this week.

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AJ Simon GoFundMe

Simon’s family created a GoFundMe to pay for funeral expenses.

“It is with a heavy heart that we are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved AJ,” the post read. “On April 16, 2024, our family lost a piece of our hearts that we will always miss. AJ was an incredible son, brother, uncle, teammate, friend and inspiration to many. He was a star on and off the field with a Immense impact on youth and community. His smile was contagious. His laugh and presence lit up a room.

“He was at the peak of his football career with the NFL draft ahead of him. AJ’s love for the game was known to all who knew him. We are very proud of the man he was and continues to be. We will continue to cheer him on forever. through precious memories.

“Our family is now faced with the unfortunate reality of his sudden passing, but we are determined to ensure he receives the proper send-off to represent who he was, not only to his family, but to all those he inspired. We are humbly asking for donations to able to offset funeral expenses. We appreciate all your love and support during this time.

“If love could have saved him, he would have lived forever.”

The GoFundMe was set with a goal of $30,000, but surpassed that total before draft week began.