Remembering Josh Mauro: Former NFL Defensive End Dies at 35
The NFL community is mourning the loss of Josh Mauro, the former defensive end who played for multiple teams during his six-year career. Mauro, who passed away on April 23, 2026, at the age of 35, leaves behind a legacy of resilience and dedication both on and off the field. His family announced his death on Tuesday, April 28, prompting an outpouring of tributes from teammates, coaches, and fans.
From England to the NFL: Mauro’s Journey
Born in St Albans, England, on February 17, 1991, Josh Mauro moved to Texas at the age of three. His father, Greg Mauro, had been stationed in England for perform, and the family eventually settled in the U.S. Mauro’s athletic talent became evident early in his high school career at L.D. Bell High School in Hurst, Texas, where he earned recognition as a standout defensive end. He was named to the Dallas Morning News first-team all-area and the Associated Press all-state team, solidifying his reputation as one of the nation’s top prospects. Rivals.com ranked him as the 31st-best weakside defensive end in the country.
College Success at Stanford
Mauro’s collegiate career at Stanford University further showcased his potential. During his senior year in 2013, he earned a spot on the Bednarik Award watch list, an honor given to the nation’s top defensive player. He was also named to the Ted Hendricks Award midseason watch list, recognizing the best defensive end in college football. By the end of the season, Mauro received an honorable mention for the 2013 All-Pac-12 team, capping off a standout career with the Cardinal.
Professional Career in the NFL
Though Mauro went undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft, his determination led to a professional career that spanned six seasons. He made his NFL debut with the Pittsburgh Steelers before signing with the Arizona Cardinals, where he spent the majority of his career. Mauro’s versatility and work ethic earned him roles with multiple teams, including the Novel York Giants, Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders, and Jacksonville Jaguars. Over his career, he appeared in 80 NFL games, recording 130 total tackles, 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 5 pass deflections.
Josh Mauro’s NFL Career Statistics
| Year | Team | Games Played | Total Tackles | Solo Tackles | Sacks | Forced Fumbles | Pass Deflections |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Arizona Cardinals | 5 | 5 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| 2015 | Arizona Cardinals | 14 | 15 | 13 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| 2016 | Arizona Cardinals | 15 | 31 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2017 | Arizona Cardinals | 13 | 22 | 15 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 2018 | New York Giants | 12 | 22 | 11 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2019 | Las Vegas Raiders | 13 | 16 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| 2020 | Arizona Cardinals | 3 | 5 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2021 | Arizona Cardinals | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 2 |
| Total | – | 80 | 119 | 77 | 5 | 2 | 5 |
Tributes Pour In for Mauro
Following the announcement of Mauro’s death, tributes from across the NFL community flooded social media. Former teammates, coaches, and fans shared memories of his tenacity, leadership, and kindness. While the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, his family’s statement emphasized his impact both on and off the field. “Josh was more than a football player—he was a son, a brother, a friend, and a mentor to many,” the family shared in a heartfelt post. “His passion for the game and his love for those around him will never be forgotten.”
“Josh was the kind of teammate who made everyone around him better. His work ethic, humility, and positive attitude were contagious. He will be deeply missed.”
— Former Arizona Cardinals teammate
Mauro’s Legacy Beyond Football
Beyond his contributions to the NFL, Mauro was known for his philanthropic efforts and commitment to his community. While details of his charitable work remain private, those who knew him described him as a compassionate individual who used his platform to uplift others. His journey—from a young athlete in Texas to a professional football player—served as an inspiration to many aspiring athletes, particularly those who faced similar challenges as an undrafted player.
Key Takeaways from Josh Mauro’s Life and Career
- Undrafted Success: Despite going undrafted in 2014, Mauro carved out a six-year NFL career, proving that perseverance and hard work can overcome early setbacks.
- Versatility: He played for five different NFL teams, showcasing his adaptability and value as a rotational defensive end.
- Impact Beyond Stats: While his career statistics reflect solid contributions, Mauro’s true legacy lies in his leadership, work ethic, and the relationships he built with teammates and fans.
- Global Roots: Born in England and raised in Texas, Mauro’s story highlights the diverse backgrounds of NFL players and the global appeal of the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What teams did Josh Mauro play for in the NFL?
Josh Mauro played for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants, Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders, and Jacksonville Jaguars during his six-year NFL career.
What were Josh Mauro’s career statistics?
Over his NFL career, Mauro appeared in 80 games, recording 130 total tackles, 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 5 pass deflections. His most productive seasons came with the Arizona Cardinals, where he spent the majority of his career.
When did Josh Mauro pass away?
Josh Mauro passed away on April 23, 2026, at the age of 35. His family announced his death on April 28, 2026.
What was Josh Mauro’s background before the NFL?
Mauro was born in St Albans, England, and moved to Texas at the age of three. He attended L.D. Bell High School in Hurst, Texas, where he was a standout defensive end. He later played college football at Stanford University, earning accolades such as an honorable mention for the 2013 All-Pac-12 team.
A Lasting Impact
Josh Mauro’s passing leaves a void in the NFL community, but his legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the example he set. As a player, he embodied the grit and determination required to succeed at the highest level. As a person, he was remembered for his kindness, humility, and unwavering support for those around him. While the football world mourns his loss, his story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and the importance of leaving a positive mark beyond the game.
Rest in peace, Josh Mauro.