The football world is reeling from the sudden and heartbreaking loss of former NFL defensive end Josh Mauro, who passed away at the age of 35. His family, led by his father Greg Mauro, confirmed the news on social media, revealing that Josh “breathed his last breath on this earth and his first breath in heaven” on Thursday, April 23, 2026. An eight-year veteran for the Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants, and Las Vegas Raiders, Mauro was known for his quiet strength, dependability, and an unyielding work ethic that made him a respected figure in locker rooms across the league.
While the family’s statement focused on their grief and faith, the public’s attention has turned to the circumstances surrounding the untimely passing of a man in peak physical condition. Mauro’s father, Greg, offered a poignant, faith-based perspective on his son’s suffering, stating that Josh is now “healed and made new—living in the presence of the Lord”—a phrase that has been interpreted by many as a quiet but powerful reference to a long, private battle with a serious illness. To date, no official medical details have been released by the family, leaving fans and former teammates to mourn a life cut short while searching for answers.
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Unconfirmed Reports and Speculation
In the vacuum of official information, unconfirmed reports have surfaced on social media claiming that Josh Mauro was suffering from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. This neurodegenerative disorder progressively attacks motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to the loss of muscle function, paralysis, and ultimately, respiratory failure. While several news outlets, including WIONews, have reported on these social media claims, all have emphasized that the cause of death has not yet been made public by the Mauro family.
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) April 28, 2026
The family has understandably requested privacy, and until they choose to share more, any discussion of ALS or any other specific illness remains pure speculation. His father’s use of the word “healed” suggests a period of physical decline, but the exact nature of his suffering is currently known only to his closest loved ones.
A Legacy Beyond the Gridiron
Regardless of the cause, Josh Mauro’s legacy is already secure. An undrafted free agent out of Stanford, where he majored in Management Science and Engineering, Mauro carved out a professional career through sheer determination and grit. He played in 80 games over eight seasons, recording five sacks and 150 tackles, and was praised by former teammates like Adrian Wilson for his professionalism.
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More than the statistics, it was his character that defined him. His girlfriend, Linzay Crawford, echoed a sentiment felt by many, writing, “I know you’re finally at peace”. In the wake of this immense loss, the NFL community and the Mauro family are left to navigate a profound void, remembering a man who gave everything to the game and whose final, silent battle has now come to a close.
