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Death of former NFL player Josh Mauro was due to a combination drug overdose

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Avatar of R. Alexander Núñez

By R. Alexander Núñez

The cause of death of the former player of the Nationwide Soccer League, Josh Maurowas officially determined as an acute poisoning caused by the combination of fentanyl, cocaine and ethanol, according to records released by the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office. The report also classified the death as accidental.

Mauro was 35 years old and died on April 23. Although his family had confirmed his death days later, no details about the circumstances or cause had been given at that time.

The former defensive lineman left a career of eight seasons in the NFLmost of them with the Arizona Cardinals, an organization with which he played for six seasons. He also played for the New York Giants and the then Oakland Raiders, before closing his professional career.

The official confirmation and the message from his family

The news of his death was initially announced by his father, Greg Maurothrough a publication on Facebook. In that message he asked for prayers for his family as they go through the loss.

“With many tears and broken hearts, but anchored in the unwavering certainty that our precious Josh Mauro is now healed and renewed, living in the presence of the Lord, we humbly ask for your prayers as our family navigates the devastating loss of our incredible son, brother, uncle, grandson and friend,” she wrote.

She later added: “On Thursday, April 23, Josh breathed his last breath on this earth and his first breath in heaven. The Lord has been our strength in this unimaginable time. Your prayers for continued strength and comfort mean more to us than words could ever express.”

Days later, the Cardinals also issued a statement to express their condolences. “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Josh Mauro. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone who knew him. We extend our deepest condolences to all who mourn this loss.”

His time in the NFL

Mauro graduated in Stanford College in 2013 and that same year he began his professional career. Throughout his career he played 80 games in the NFL, 40 of them as a starter.

His most notable campaign was in 2016 with Arizonawhen he participated in 15 games, 13 from the start, and recorded 32 tackles. In total, he accumulated five quarterback sacks during his career.

The player, 1.98 meters tall and 132 kilos, had his last season in the league in 2021 with the Cardinals. In his career total he also added 130 tackles, according to the records cited in the materials provided.

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