NFL World Mourns the Death of Former Cardinals DE Josh Mauro

Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

NFL World Mourns the Death of Former Cardinals DE Josh Mauro

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Yagya Bhargava | Last updated Apr 28, 2026 5:52 PM ET

The NFL lost one of its own this week. Former defensive end Josh Mauro passed away on April 23 at just 35 years old. His father, Greg Mauro, confirmed the news on Tuesday. The family has not shared a cause of death.

Greg Mauro broke the news with a heartfelt post on social media.

"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.

"On Thursday, April 23rd, Josh breathed his last breath on this earth and his first breath in heaven. The Lord has been our strength in this unimaginable moment. Your prayers for continued strength and comfort mean more to us than words could ever express."

Former NFL defensive end Josh Mauro before a game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High.Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

NFL World Reacts to Josh Mauro's Passing

The reaction from fans and those who covered him was immediate. Arizona Cardinals reporter Darren Urban, who knew Mauro well from his time in the desert, kept it simple.

"Josh was a good dude and a guy who was dependable for the Cardinals in multiple seasons," Urban wrote.

"Rest in peace, big guy. Loved ya when you were with the Cardinals. You were a solid rotational player who gave your all. Prayers for his family. Heartbreaking to lose someone who should have had a lot of life left to live," one fan wrote.

"One of my favorites. Gone way too soon. Prayers for his family and friends," another commented.

"#GoStanford always a Cardinal forever. Too soon," another fan added.

"Heartbreaking, Rest In Peace," another fan shared.

"Saddens me greatly. He was in Steelers Camp but didn't make the cut. I interviewed Josh Mauro prior to going to the pros. He was an outstanding person. My condolences go to his family right now." One person who had crossed paths with Mauro also weighed in.

Josh Mauro’s Career Was Built on Grit

Mauro came out of Stanford University where he played from 2010 through 2013 recording 81 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, 11 sacks and two forced fumbles. He went undrafted in 2014 but signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers and found his way into the league anyway.

The Arizona Cardinals became his football home. He played 47 games for them between 2014 and 2017 then returned for another eight games from 2020 to 2021.

Across stops that also included the New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders and Jacksonville Jaguars, Mauro appeared in 80 NFL games finishing with 130 tackles and five sacks.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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