Josh Mauro, a former NFL defensive end known for his time with the Arizona Cardinals, has died at the age of 35.
The Cardinals confirmed his passing in a public statement, expressing sympathy for his family, friends, and former teammates. Mauro’s family also shared the news on social media, describing the loss as deeply painful.
No cause of death has been disclosed.
From undrafted prospect to steady contributor
Mauro’s path to the NFL began at Stanford University, where he developed into a reliable defensive lineman. During his senior season, he recorded 4.0 sacks and 12.5 tackles for loss.
Despite those numbers, he was not selected in the 2014 NFL Draft. He initially signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers but did not make the final roster.
His opportunity came with the Arizona Cardinals, where he earned a place on the team and gradually carved out a role on the defensive line.
Majority of career with Arizona
Mauro spent most of his professional career with the Cardinals across two separate stints. He appeared in 55 games for the team and became a regular presence on the defensive front.
After leaving Arizona in 2018, he continued his career with several teams, including the New York Giants, Oakland Raiders, and Jacksonville Jaguars.
He later returned to the Cardinals in 2020 before finishing his NFL tenure the following year.
Across his career, Mauro played in 80 games, recording 130 tackles, 5.0 sacks, and 20 tackles for loss, along with two forced fumbles.
Family shares message after loss
Mauro’s father, Greg Mauro, announced his son’s death in a message that reflected the family’s grief and faith.
"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," he wrote.
The message added that Mauro “breathed his last breath on this earth and his first breath in heaven,” while thanking others for their support during the loss.
Tributes have continued to come in from across the football community, with former teammates and fans remembering Mauro’s time in the league and his presence beyond the field.
