Raiders Mourn Former Defensive End Josh Mauro, Dead at 35

From Stanford to the NFL (Image Credits: Pixabay)

Las Vegas – Former Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Josh Mauro passed away on April 23 at the age of 35, his family announced this week. The eight-year NFL veteran, who appeared in 13 games for the Silver and Black during the 2019 season, left behind a legacy of perseverance on the field. Tributes poured in from his former teams as the news spread across the league.[1][2]

From Stanford to the NFL

Mauro began his football journey far from the professional spotlight. Born in St. Albans, England, on February 17, 1991, he moved to the United States and excelled at Stanford University. There, he earned recognition as an honorable mention on the All-Pac-12 team and appeared on watch lists for prestigious awards like the Bednarik and Ted Hendricks.[2]

Undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft, Mauro signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers but soon joined the Arizona Cardinals. He spent significant time with the Cardinals across two stints from 2014 to 2017 and 2020 to 2021, appearing in dozens of games and starting 40 over his career. His most productive year came in 2016, when he started 13 of 15 contests and notched 32 tackles.[3][2]

Challenges and Resilience in the Pros

Mauro’s path included stints with the New York Giants in 2018 and a brief appearance with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020. He faced suspensions for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing substance policy, including four games in 2018 and five in 2020, yet returned to contribute. Over eight seasons, he amassed 130 tackles, five sacks, two forced fumbles, and five pass deflections in 80 games.[2]

Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 290 pounds, Mauro brought size and tenacity to the defensive line. His career reflected the grit required to stick in the league as an undrafted player, navigating roster battles and injuries along the way.[3]

A Season in Silver and Black

Mauro signed with the then-Oakland Raiders in March 2019, a move that connected him to the franchise’s storied history just before its relocation to Las Vegas. He played in 13 games that year, starting seven, and helped bolster the defensive front during a transitional period for the team.[1]

The Raiders released this statement: “The Raiders mourn the loss of Josh Mauro, who passed away last week. An eight-year NFL veteran out of Stanford, Mauro played the 2019 season with the Silver and Black, playing 13 games with seven starts. The deepest condolences of the Raiders Family are with Josh’s family and friends at this time.”[1]

Family’s Emotional Tribute

Mauro’s father, Greg Mauro, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook. “With many tears and broken hearts, yet anchored in the unshakable certainty that our precious Josh Mauro is now healed and made new – live 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,” he wrote.[4]

“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.” No cause of death was disclosed.[4]

The Arizona Cardinals also expressed grief, stating they were “heartbroken” and extending condolences to Mauro’s loved ones.[3]

Mauro’s sudden departure at such a young age serves as a stark reminder of life’s fragility, even for those who thrived under the brightest lights. The Raiders organization and fans in Las Vegas hold his memory close as part of the team’s enduring family.