NFL prospect AJ Simon tragically dies aged just 25: Former Albany defensive lineman passes away days before he hoped to realize his dream at 2024 draft - as distraught coach says 'you will always have a special place in my heart'

Former Albany star Amitral 'AJ' Simon has tragically died at the age of just 25 - only days before the 2024 NFL draft.

The defensive lineman had hoped to be selected at the upcoming draft, which takes place next week in Detroit. No cause of death has been confirmed.

'The UAlbany football program was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former student-athlete Amitral 'AJ' Simon this morning,' Albany said in a statement.

'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.' 

Simon, who was born in Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania, amassed 55 tackles - and 12.5 sacks - as the Great Danes won a first ever Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) title and reached the semifinals of the FCS playoffs in 2023.

Former Albany star Amitral 'AJ' Simon has tragically died at the age of just 25

 'AJ was a tremendous young man and even better teammate,' Albany said following his death

He picked up several accolades, including All-CAA first team defense and FCS football central first team All-American. He had begun his college career at Bloomsburg University - and was named to the 2021 First Team All Conference - before playing the past two seasons for Albany. 

On Wednesday, Albany coach Greg Gattuso wrote on on social media: 'Two joyous year(s) 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.'

The 6ft 1, 267lb lineman was, according to the school website, the son of Amitral and Felma Simon. He had two sisters - Dominque and Doranella. 

'Words can't express who he was, what he meant to so many and how big his smile was,' added Jared Ambrose, associate head coach at UAlbany. 

'He brought light to everyone who came across him. Gone too soon but he’s part of us forever.'

'I love you AJ and will always have a special place in my heart for #8,' Albany coach Greg Gattuso said

Following the tragic news, another team official, Taylor O'Connor, shared a heartbreaking story about Simon and his dreams of reaching the NFL.

'AJ would text me for cool edits after the season ended and he started prepping for the NFL Draft,' O'Connor wrote on social media. 

'(He) was always so kind and appreciative of everything I sent him. I joked with him "Don’t forget about me when you make it to the NFL!" He laughed and said “Never!” Rest easy, 8'

A few weeks ago, Simon shared a video online which revealed that seven NFL scouts had shown up to Albany's Pro Day to check out the 'pass rush stud'. 

And, in a poignant post back in December, Simon announced he would be entering the draft.

'It has been an incredible journey here at UAlbany, and I am immensely grateful for the support, guidance and mentorship provided by the UA staff,' he wrote in a statement.

The lineman had hoped to be selected at the 2024 draft, which takes place next week

'My time at UAlbany has not only honed my athletic skills but has also shaped me into a better individual both on and off the field.'

He added: 'Their guidance has been pivotal in shaping my path toward this momentous decision to enter the NFL draft. 

'Thank you once again for everything. I am truly honored to have been a part of the Purple Fam and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.

'I am thrilled to represent the University at Albany as I take this next step in my football career. Sad that it's over but grateful that it happened.' 

The tragic news comes just a few days after Texas A&M-Commerce wide receiver Keith Miller III was found dead. He was only 23.

The news comes just a few days after Texas A&M-Commerce's Keith Miller III was found dead 

Miler III's girlfriend said he was 'mentally battling something' before his death. Calia Jae wrote on Instagram: 'I'm only going to address this one time for the sake I don't want any fake news being spread. 

'Keith was mentally battling something that not me or even his mom could help him with. I have done everything I could I as his partner to try to help him during his battle but ultimately God as the final say so.

'Keith baby I forgive you and I love you in this life and the next. Please continue to pray for the family and for me I truly appreciate all the support.'

Jae shared her grief on Instagram when news of Miller's death first surfaced, saying: 'I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you. I will never love anyone the way I loved you. See you soon.'