Josh Mauro cause of death revealed months after former NFL star’s passing at 35
The former NFL defensive end was found unresponsive at his Arizona home in April 2026
The cause of death for former NFL defensive end Josh Mauro has been officially confirmed, months after he was found unresponsive at his home in Arizona at the age of 35.
According to online records from the Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner, obtained by multiple outlets including KKCO 11, AZFamily, and the New York Post, Mauro died from an acute combination of fentanyl, cocaine, and ethanol intoxication.
Authorities have ruled the manner of death as an accident.
Mauro’s family first announced his passing on April 28, 2026, days after he was discovered at his residence.
In a statement shared by his father, Greg Mauro, the family described their grief while expressing faith amid the loss.
“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,” the family wrote.
“On Thursday, April 23, Josh breathed his last breath on this earth and his first breath in heaven.”
A Stanford University graduate, Mauro entered the NFL in 2014 and spent six seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, where he established himself as a dependable defensive presence.
He later had brief stints with the New York Giants in 2018, the Las Vegas Raiders, and the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020.
Over the course of his NFL career, Mauro appeared in 80 games, recording 130 tackles and five sacks.
Following news of his death, the Arizona Cardinals issued a statement expressing condolences, saying the organization was “heartbroken” and sending thoughts to his family and loved ones.
Tributes also poured in from across the sports community, including podcaster Rudy Reyes, who described Mauro as an “outstanding person” and shared memories of interviewing him prior to his professional career.
Mauro’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief among former teammates, fans, and colleagues as the football community continues to reflect on his life and career.