Josh Mauro, former NFL defensive end who spent six of his eight professional seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, has died on April 23 at the age of 35, leaving family, friends, teammates, and the football world mourning a heartbreaking loss.
The devastating news was shared by Mauro’s family in an emotional public statement posted by his father, Greg Mauro, who described Josh as a beloved son, brother, uncle, grandson, and friend.
“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,” the family shared.
“On Thursday, April 23rd, Josh breathed his last breath on this earth and his first breath in heaven.”
No cause of death has been publicly disclosed.
A Texas Standout Who Reached the NFL
Born and raised in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Josh Mauro graduated from L.D. Bell High School in Hurst, Texas, where he began building the football foundation that would carry him to the national stage.
Mauro went on to play four impressive seasons at Stanford University, where he became a key contributor to one of the school’s strongest eras. During his collegiate career, he earned All-Pac-12 honorable mention recognition in 2013 and helped Stanford reach multiple bowl games, including two Rose Bowl appearances.
Though he entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2014, Mauro’s determination quickly defined his professional journey. After being released by Pittsburgh, he signed with the Arizona Cardinals, where he established himself as a dependable and versatile defensive lineman.
NFL Career Built on Reliability and Grit
Over eight NFL seasons, Josh Mauro played in 80 games with 40 starts, recording 130 total tackles and five sacks.
His career included:
- Arizona Cardinals (2014–2017, 2020–2021)
- New York Giants (2018)
- Oakland Raiders (2019)
Mauro became widely respected for his toughness, work ethic, and readiness—qualities that made him a valued teammate wherever he played.
Former Cardinals safety Adrian Wilson praised Mauro’s consistency, saying he was “always in shape, always ready” whenever called upon.
Teammates and NFL Community Pay Tribute
Following news of his passing, tributes poured in from across the football world.
Raiders star Maxx Crosby, who played alongside Mauro during his rookie year in Oakland, shared an emotional message recalling Mauro’s mentorship and friendship.
Crosby remembered Josh as one of the first veteran players to welcome him after being drafted, someone he admired long before they became teammates. Their shared Texas roots and daily conversations made Mauro’s loss especially painful.
“I love you bro… I wish I could just talk to you one more time,” Crosby said in a heartfelt tribute.
The Arizona Cardinals released a statement expressing heartbreak over Mauro’s death and extended condolences to his loved ones, while the Raiders and Stanford football community also honored his life and legacy.
Remembering Josh Mauro Beyond Football
While Josh Mauro’s athletic achievements were significant, those closest to him remember him for more than football. He was known as a loyal friend, supportive teammate, devoted family member, and man of faith.
His passing at just 35 has left an enormous void, but his legacy continues through the lives he impacted on and off the field.
Josh Mauro will be remembered for his perseverance, humility, strength, and the respect he earned throughout every stage of his journey—from Texas high school football to Stanford excellence to the NFL.
As his family, former teammates, and fans grieve this profound loss, Josh Mauro’s memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew and admired him. Gone too soon, but never forgotten.
