Cause Of Death Announced For Former NFL Player Josh Mauro
The NFL community received an update on the sudden death of defensive end Josh Mauro.
Prior to entering the NFL in 2014, Mauro had 81 total tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, 11 sacks and two forced fumbles for Stanford's football team. He then had stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders and Jacksonville Jaguars.
Back on April 28, Greg Mauro sadly revealed that his son passed away. Josh Mauro was just 35 years old.
"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," Greg Mauro wrote on Facebook. "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."
According to the Maricopa County Medical Examiner, the former NFL player died from a drug overdose.
The California Post reported that Mauro passed away from "acute combined fentanyl, cocaine, and ethanol intoxication." His death has been ruled an accident.
NFL community heartbroken over Mauro's death.
Raiders star Maxx Crosby said he was "sick to his stomach" when he found out about Mauro's death. They were teammates during the 2019 season.
"I can't believe I have to do this right now," Crosby said. "I'm sick to my stomach to be honest. But my guy Josh Mauro just passed away recently. Damn bro, I really don't have words. I love you, bro, and I wish I could've done more for you. I wish I could've been there for you. It's just tough man."
NFL fans were also devastated over Mauro's passing.
"What a talented, loving and gifted man! We don't understand these things but trust in the One who does," one person wrote. "Our prayers are with you all!! We love you and pray for the Lord's comfort and peace to surround you and uphold you during this deep loss and heartbreak."
"I'm so deeply sorry for your loss. I'm grateful knowing he's at peace and made whole, but he will be missed beyond measure," another person told the Mauro family. "I'm praying for your entire family that you feel strength, comfort, and God's presence in every moment ahead. We love you all and see y'all soon."
Our thoughts remain with Mauro's friends and family members. May he rest in peace.
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This story was originally published May 15, 2026 at 1:35 PM.