University of Kentucky Dancer Kate Kaufling Dead at 20
The football neighborhood is grieving the loss of an increasing star.
Amitral “AJ” Simon— a previous protective lineman for the University at Albany’sfootball group—passed away at the age of 25 on April 17, his school verified. No cause of death has actually been validated at this time.
“AJ was an incredible boy and even much better colleague throughout his time at UAlbany,” his previous group composed in a declaration shared to Xpreviously referred to as Twitter. “He was a good example both on and off the field, functioning as a pillar to this program over the last 2 years.”
And in a tribute to their university’s mascot, UAlbany included, “Forever a Great Dane.”
Initially from Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania, AJ started his college profession at Bloomsburg University before moving to UAlbany in 2022 where he bet 2 years. A first-team All-CAA protective end, AJ assisted lead his school to the semifinals of the NCAA FCS playoffs in 2023.
He amounted to 5 sacks and 10.5 deals with for loss his very first year and bested himself in 2023 with 12.5 sacks, 74 pressures and 21.5 deals with for loss, according to NBC Sports
Instagram/ AJ Simon
Great Danes head coach Greg Gattuso composed on X of his time dealing with the professional athlete, “Two wondrous year[s] training and ending up being good friends with AJ Simon. My prayers are devoted to the Simon household. I like you AJ and will constantly have an unique location in my heart for # 8.”
AJ had actually been wanting to be chosen in the NFL draft occurring in between April 25 and 27 and, according to NBChad actually taken a pre-draft see to New England just recently.
At the close of his 2023 season, AJ penned a message assessing his time at Albany, throughout which he revealed his strategies to attempt and take his football profession to the expert level.
“I am genuinely honored to have actually belonged of the Purple Fam and eagerly anticipate the chances that lie ahead,” AJ captioned his December 21 post. “I am enjoyed represent the University at Albany as I take this next action in my football profession. Unfortunate that it’s over, however grateful that it occurred.”
He continued, “With that being stated, I will be entering my name in the 2024 NFL Draft!”
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