Full Breakdown
Former NFL Defensive End Josh Mauro Dies at 35
4/30/2026, 2:23:44 AM
Death Announcement and Immediate Details
Former Arizona Cardinals defensive end Josh Mauro died on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at age 35. The news was confirmed by his father, Greg Mauro, in a Facebook post on April 28. Neither the family nor the teams disclosed a cause of death, and no medical details have been released.
Career Overview and Statistics
Born February 17, 1991, in St Albans, England, Mauro moved to Texas at age three and later played college football at Stanford, earning All-Pac-12 honorable-mention honors in 2013. After going undrafted in 2014, he signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, was cut, and joined the Arizona Cardinals. Over eight NFL seasons (2014-2021) he appeared in 80 games (40 starts), recorded 130 total tackles, 20 tackles for loss, five sacks, two forced fumbles, and five passes defended. His most productive season was 2016, when he started 13 of 15 games and posted 32 tackles.
Timeline of Professional Career
- 2014: Signed as undrafted free agent with Pittsburgh Steelers; released before season.
- 2014-2017: Joined Arizona Cardinals (first stint); 57 games, 26 starts.
- 2018: Signed with New York Giants; appeared in 12 games.
- 2019: Played for Oakland Raiders (13 games, 7 starts).
- 2020: Briefly with Jacksonville Jaguars; suspended for PED policy violation, then on practice squad.
- 2020-2021: Returned to Arizona Cardinals for final two seasons; retired after 2021.
Official Statements & Responses
The Arizona Cardinals issued a statement expressing heartbreak, extending condolences to Mauro’s family, friends, and all who knew him. The Las Vegas Raiders released a similar condolence message, and Stanford Football posted that it was “heartbroken to learn of the passing of Josh Mauro.” Greg Mauro’s family statement emphasized prayer and gratitude for his life.
Tributes from Former Teammates
Raiders edge-rusher Maxx Crosby posted a video recalling their shared Texas roots and saying, “I love you bro, and I know you had my back since day one.” Former Cardinals safety Adrian Wilson wrote on X, “Prayers go out to Josh Mauro and his family… You could depend on him.” Former teammate J.J. Watt added, “We’re losing way too many, way too young. Rest in peace, Josh.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree that no cause of death has been disclosed. A few outlets (e.g., WION) mentioned unverified speculation that Mauro might have been battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but no official confirmation exists. The lack of medical information leaves the exact circumstances of his passing unresolved.
Why the Loss Resonates
Mauro’s death at a relatively young age highlights the health uncertainties faced by former NFL players, especially those who entered the league as undrafted free agents and forged lengthy careers through durability and work ethic. His story underscores the NFL community’s emphasis on camaraderie, as teammates across multiple franchises publicly mourned his passing.
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, Facebook post
- “On Thursday, April 23rd, Josh breathed his last breath on this earth and his first breath in heaven.” — Greg Mauro, Facebook post
- “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.” — Arizona Cardinals statement
- “I love you bro, and I know you had my back since Day One,” — Maxx Crosby, video tribute
- “Prayers go out to Josh Mauro and his family. Always in shape, always was ready to go wherever he got that call. One of the things I respected most about him. You could depend on him.” — Adrian Wilson, X post
- “We’re losing way too many, way too young. Rest in Peace Josh.” — J.J. Watt, X post
What’s Next
NFL teams, former teammates, and fans will continue to honor Mauro through social-media tributes and potential charitable initiatives in his name. Until the family chooses to release further details, the cause of death remains unconfirmed, and the NFL community will likely await any future statements from Mauro’s relatives or medical representatives.
