The Arizona Cardinals announced on Apr. 28 that former defensive lineman Josh Mauro has died at the age of 35.
Mauro played a significant role with the Cardinals over three separate stints, including from 2014 to 2017 and again in 2020 and 2021. His passing is being mourned by former teammates, coaches, and fans.
During his career with the Cardinals, Mauro started in multiple games and was known for his commitment to the team rather than individual statistics. “It’s bigger than you making plays, it’s bigger than getting your name called, it’s bigger than the newspaper having your numbers,” Mauro said after the 2016 season. The team released a statement saying, “We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Josh Mauro. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew him. We extend our deepest condolences to everyone grieving this loss.” Adrian Wilson also remembered him by saying on Twitter: “Prayers go out to Josh Mauro and his family. Had the opportunity to be around Josh for several years with BA. Always in shape, always was ready to go wherever he got that call. One of the things I respected most about him. You could depend on him.”
Mauro’s time with Arizona included filling important roles when injuries struck other players such as Zach Allen; then-defensive coordinator Vance Joseph said at one point they had “replaced Zach with an older Zach” when bringing back Mauro.
The Arizona Cardinals are a professional football team in the NFC West division according to their official website. The franchise serves the greater Phoenix area according to their official website and hosts home games in Glendale, Arizona according to their official website. The organization stands as the oldest continuously operating professional football franchise in the United States according to their official website, and captured an NFC championship in 2008 according to their official website.
Mauro’s legacy remains among those who value teamwork over personal achievement.