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UAlbany DL AJ Simon, a 2024 NFL Draft hopeful, dies at 25

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated 4/17/24

NFL Draft hopeful AJ Simon has died less than two weeks before the event.

Simon, a 25-year-old pass rusher out of UAlbany who had hoped to be selected in the draft, died Wednesday morning, the school announced. No other information was given.

Two joyous year 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. pic.twitter.com/vps8tqA5O3

— Greg Gattuso (@CoachGGattuso) April 17, 2024

Simon collected 12.5 sacks and 21.5 tackles for a loss in 2023. He was a big part of the Great Danes’ 11-4 record and run to the semifinal of the FCS playoffs. Charean Williams of Pro Football Talk noted that Simon had just taken a pre-draft visit to the New England Patriots last week.

Simon had been projected as a late-round pick or potential priority undrafted free agent.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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