Former Arizona Cardinals and New York Giants defensive end Josh Mauro has died at the age of 35. His father, Greg Mauro, confirmed the news in a Facebook post, stating that Josh died on Thursday, April 23rd.
Greg Mauro wrote: '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 Cardinals expressed their sorrow, saying: 'We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Josh Mauro. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and all who knew him.' The Raiders also paid tribute. Former Cardinals safety Adrian Wilson remembered Mauro's work ethic, saying he was always ready and dependable.
Mauro was born in England while his father was working there, and moved to the US as a child. He played college football at Stanford, majoring in management science and engineering. Despite going undrafted, he enjoyed an eight-year NFL career with the Cardinals, Giants and Raiders, recording 130 tackles and five sacks in 80 games.
In 2017, he returned to the UK to play in London with the Cardinals, saying: 'Every Sunday when I take the field I appreciate it. I am grateful, and I embrace it. It’s a blessing to be out there.'
