Full Breakdown
Former NFL Defensive End Josh Mauro Dies at 35
4/29/2026, 10:04:27 PM
Josh Mauro’s Death Confirmed
On April 23 2026, former NFL defensive end Josh Mauro was reported dead at age 35. The news was first shared by his father, Greg Mauro, on social-media platforms. Neither the family nor any team disclosed a cause of death, and no medical details have been released.
Career Overview
Born in St Albans, England, while his father worked abroad, Mauro moved to Texas at age three. He played high-school football in Hurst before earning a scholarship to Stanford University, where he posted a senior season of 4.0 sacks and 12.5 tackles for loss. After going undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft, he signed as a free agent with the Pittsburgh Steelers, was released, and joined the Arizona Cardinals later that year. Mauro spent six of his eight NFL seasons with Arizona (2014-2017, 2020-2021) and also played for the New York Giants (2018), the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders (2019), and the Jacksonville Jaguars (2020). He retired after the 2021 season.
Career Statistics
- Games played: 80 (40 starts)
- Total tackles: 130 (87 solo)
- Sacks: 5.0
- Tackles for loss: 20
- Forced fumbles: 2
- Passes defended: 5
These numbers reflect contributions across all teams, with the majority of his production occurring while with the Cardinals.
Official Statements & Responses
The Arizona Cardinals issued a statement: “We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Josh Mauro. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew him. We extend our deepest condolences to everyone grieving this loss.” The Las Vegas Raiders released a brief condolence: “The deepest condolences of the Raiders Family are with Josh’s family and friends at this time.”
Criticism & Controversies
During his career, Mauro faced two suspensions for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing substance policy—once while with the New York Giants and again with the Jacksonville Jaguars. These incidents were noted in multiple reports and represent the primary on-field controversies associated with his playing tenure.
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’re losing way too many, way too young … Rest in Peace Josh.” — J.J. Watt, former Cardinals teammate
- “[Josh was] always in shape, always ready to go wherever he got that call. One of the things I respected most about him, you could depend on him.” — Adrian Wilson, former Cardinals safety
- “Josh breathed his last breath on this earth and his first breath in heaven.” — Greg Mauro (excerpt)
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree that the cause of death remains undisclosed. One outlet mentioned unverified rumors linking Mauro to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but no evidence or official confirmation was provided. The family’s statement offered no medical explanation, leaving the exact circumstances of his passing ambiguous.
What’s Next
The Mauro family has indicated that further details may be shared when appropriate. NFL teams, former teammates, and fans continue to post tributes on social media, and memorial services are expected to be organized locally. Until an official cause is released, the focus remains on honoring Mauro’s contributions on and off the field.
