Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Former NFL Lineman Josh Mauro Dies at 35

4/29/2026

45 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Josh Mauro Dies

Former NFL defensive lineman Josh Mauro died on April 23, 2026, at age 35, with the cause not disclosed.
His family announced the death on April 28, prompting statements from the Arizona Cardinals and Las Vegas Raiders.
Mauro entered the NFL undrafted in 2014 and played for the Steelers, Cardinals, Giants, and Raiders before retiring after the 2021 season.

Summary

Mauro Suspended

Mauro was suspended five games in 2020 for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing drugs policy with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Born in St. Albans, UK, he moved to Texas at three, earned all-state defensive end honors at L.D. Bell High School and was rated a three-star recruit.
He later appeared on Stanford’s Bedarnik and Ted Hendricks watchlists.
Maxx Crosby said Mauro texted him as a mentor after his draft.

History

Historical Context

Since the NFL introduced its first year-round steroid policy in 1987, it has expanded testing to over 14,000 samples annually and recorded 111 positive cases by 2005, suspending 54 players. The league’s early crackdown, exemplified by the 1991 fine structure, set the precedent for the five-game suspension handed to player Mauro in 2020, reinforcing ongoing health-monitoring efforts with the NFLPA.

1 of 3

Josh Mauro Dies

Former NFL defensive lineman Josh Mauro died on April 23, 2026, at age 35, with the cause not disclosed.
His family announced the death on April 28, prompting statements from the Arizona Cardinals and Las Vegas Raiders.
Mauro entered the NFL undrafted in 2014 and played for the Steelers, Cardinals, Giants, and Raiders before retiring after the 2021 season.

1 / 3