Full Breakdown
Josh Mauro, Former NFL Defensive Lineman, Dies at 35
4/29/2026, 12:49:17 PM
The Tragic Loss
Former NFL defensive lineman Josh Mauro died on April 23, 2026, at age 35. The cause of death has not been disclosed. Mauro’s father, Greg Mauro, announced the loss on Facebook, noting his son’s “last breath on this earth and the first breath in heaven.” The Arizona Cardinals, Las Vegas Raiders, and Mauro’s family confirmed the news.
Career Overview
Mauro was born in St. Albans, England, moved to Texas at three, and earned all-state honors at L.D. Bell High School. He played college football at Stanford, where he received All-Pac-12 honorable mention in 2013. Undrafted in 2014, he signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, was released, and joined the Arizona Cardinals, where he spent six seasons. He later played for the New York Giants (2018), Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders (2019), and briefly for the Jacksonville Jaguars’ practice squad before retiring after the 2021 season.
Career Statistics
In 80 NFL games, Mauro started 40, recorded 130 tackles, five sacks, 13 quarterback hits, five passes defensed, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and 20 tackles for loss. He stood 6 ft 6 in, weighed 290 lb, and posted a career-high 32 tackles in 2016.
Official Reactions
The Arizona Cardinals expressed heartbreak and extended condolences to Mauro’s family and friends. The Las Vegas Raiders expressed sympathy, emphasizing the family’s loss. The Pittsburgh Steelers, where he began his NFL career, also acknowledged his passing and praised his work ethic.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree the cause of death is undisclosed. Some reports list the Jacksonville Jaguars among Mauro’s former teams, while others omit the Jaguars. A few outlets cite 2021 as his final active season; others note a 2020 practice-squad stint with the Jaguars, reflecting differing levels of detail.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Mauro's post : "With many tears and broken hearts, yet anchored in the unshakable certainty that our precious Josh Mauro is now healed and made new—living in the presence of the Lord—we humbly covet your prayers as our family walks through the devastating loss of our amazing son, brother, uncle, grandson and friend.” — Greg Mauro, father
- “We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Josh Mauro,” — Arizona Cardinals (official statement)
- “The deepest condolences of the Raiders Family are with Josh’s family and friends at this time.” — Las Vegas Raiders (official statement)
- “Always in shape, always was ready to go wherever he got that call,” — Adrian Wilson, former teammate
What’s Next
Greg Mauro indicated funeral arrangements are being finalized in his home state. The family requests prayers and privacy. No further details on memorial services have been released.
