Amitral “AJ” Simon Jr., a standout player for the University at Albany football program during its journey to the FCS semifinals, died Wednesday at the age of 25. The program announced Simon’s death in a social media post. It did not disclose the cause. Simon, originally from Tobyhanna, Pa., played two seasons at UAlbany after beginning his college career at Bloomsburg University. As a 6-foot-1, 267-pound edge rusher, he recorded 17.5 sacks during his time at Albany, 12.
Forever a Great Dane — UAlbany Football “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 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.