Former Arizona Cardinals defensive lineman Josh Mauro has died at the age of 35, according to his family.
The cause of death was not known publicly.
“Prayers go out to Josh Mauro and his family. Had the opportunity to be around Josh for several years with (head coach Bruce Arians),” former Cardinals player and executive Adrian Wilson said on X. “Always in shape, always was ready to go wherever he got that call. One of the things I respected most about him. You could depend on him.”
After his time at Stanford, Mauro went undrafted in 2014 before landing with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was eventually released during final cuts before signing on with the Cardinals.
He went on to play five games (two starts) as a rookie. He would go on to play four consecutive seasons with Arizona, totaling 75 tackles (11 for loss), two sacks, four passes defensed and two forced fumbles in 47 games (26 starts).
Mauro then signed with the New York Giants (2018) and Oakland Raiders (2019) before re-signing with Arizona for two more seasons (2020-21).
“We’re losing way too many, way too young. Rest in peace, Josh,” former Cardinals teammate J.J. Watt said on X.
The Cardinals released the following statement:
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) April 28, 2026
