Josh Mauro, a former defensive end for the Arizona Cardinals, has passed away at the age of 35, a loss that has deeply affected the NFL community. Mauro, who also spent time with the New York Giants and Oakland Raiders during an eight-year career, died on April 23. The cause of his death has not been made public.
His father, Greg Mauro, announced the tragic news on social media, describing the family’s grief as overwhelming. He requested prayers for their family as they navigate this difficult period, emphasizing their reliance on faith. Greg expressed that Josh had “breathed his last breath on this earth and his first breath in heaven,” highlighting the family’s spiritual comfort amid the sorrow.
Mauro’s NFL career began as an undrafted free agent from Stanford University. Despite this, he established himself as a consistent and reliable player. He spent his initial four seasons from 2014 to 2017 with the Cardinals, contributing to the team’s run to the 2015 NFC Championship game. Known for his dedication and dependability, Mauro later played for the Giants and Raiders before returning to Arizona to conclude his professional journey.
Over 80 games, Mauro amassed 130 tackles, five sacks, and two forced fumbles. Born in England and raised in Texas, he was respected both on and off the field for his steady presence.
Following the news, the Raiders issued a brief statement mourning Mauro’s death and offering condolences to his family and friends. Former Cardinals teammate Adrian Wilson recalled Mauro as a player who was always prepared and dependable, stating, “Always in shape, always ready to go wherever he got that call… you could depend on him.”
J.J. Watt, who played alongside Mauro in Arizona in 2021, also expressed his sorrow, commenting on social media, “We’re losing way too many, way too young… Rest in peace Josh.” Notably, Mauro was part of the Cardinals’ 2021 roster alongside Rondale Moore, whose death earlier this year at age 25 had already deeply affected the team.
