High school football player Josh Cardiello dies from sudden cardiac arrest, four years after brother Jacob Cardiello died same way

A sudden and heartbreaking loss has shaken the football world and one Georgia family. Josh Cardiello, a former high school and college football player, died on Monday after suffering sudden cardiac arrest. He was just 30 years old. The tragedy is even more painful because Josh’s younger brother, Jacob Cardiello, also died from sudden cardiac arrest in 2021. Two brothers, gone the same way, just four years apart.Josh collapsed around 5:30 a.m. local time while playing basketball. His father, Jay Cardiello, shared the heartbreaking news in an emotional social media post. He also called for stronger heart testing and awareness so other families do not suffer the same loss. Josh was well known for his success on the football field and for his kind heart off it. He later worked in the medical field, helping patients with serious health problems. He is survived by his wife, Allison, and his young daughter, Amelia. A funeral service was held on January 10.

Josh Cardiello’s football journey, medical career, and his father Jay Cardiello’s call for heart screenings

Josh Cardiello was a standout football player at Buford High School in Georgia. He helped the team win three state championships before graduating in 2013. Coaches and teammates remembered him as strong, focused, and kind.After high school, Josh earned a full scholarship to play for the Georgia Bulldogs. He later finished his college football career as a third-year starter at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. In 2017, he even took part in rookie camp with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.After football, Josh joined Amgen, a biotechnology company that develops medicines for serious diseases. His father said Josh chose this path after losing his brother.Jay Cardiello wrote, “His loss was completely unexpected and has left our family, friends, and colleagues heartbroken.”He added, “Following Jacob’s passing, Josh dedicated his professional life to honoring his brother’s memory through meaningful, patient-focused work.”Jay also shared Josh’s passion for helping others. “He was a true patient advocate, especially committed to serving patients living with cardiovascular disease,” he wrote.“His commitment, integrity, and compassion defined who he was, both personally and professionally.”Now, after losing both sons, Jay says he will push for change. “I will channel my grief and pain into honoring my beloved sons Josh and Jacob and advocate for national mandated genetic testing at birth and scheduled heart screenings throughout childhood,” he wrote.Also Read: Dave Portnoy and Camryn D’Aloia combined net worth: A look at Barstool Sports owner earnings and fitness modeling income together