Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Dominiq Ponder has died at the age of 23 following a single-car crash early Sunday morning, police have confirmed.
Ponder was driving a 2023 Tesla in Boulder County when he reportedly lost control on a curve, striking a guardrail before hitting an electrical line pole and rolling down an embankment.
He was pronounced dead at the scene, with a preliminary investigation suggesting speed as a contributing factor.
The 6-foot-5 sophomore, originally from Opa Locka, Florida, had transferred to Colorado after beginning his collegiate career at Bethune-Cookman.
Last season, he appeared in two games for the Buffaloes, recording one incomplete pass and two carries for a loss of four yards. His death comes just as the team was scheduled to commence spring practice on Monday.
Tributes have poured in from the Colorado football community. Head coach Deion Sanders posted on X, stating: “God please comfort the Ponder family, friends & Loved ones. Dom was one of my favorites! He was Loved, Respected & a Born Leader. Let’s pray for all that knew him & had the opportunity to be in his presence. Lord you’re receiving a good 1.”
Offensive coordinator Brennan Marion reposted Sanders’ message, adding: “Getting that call from his dad today didn’t feel real. Love you Dom! God cover his family & our team, especially our qb room!”
Colorado athletic director Fernando Lovo praised Ponder for embodying “the values of passion, enthusiasm, leadership, toughness, and intelligence that were revered by his teammates and coaches alike.”
The athletic department has announced that counseling resources will be made available to players and staff.
Fellow quarterback Colton Allen shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, writing: “Dom, you were a blessing to so many people. You had a presence about you that just made everything better.
“You brought so much joy to me and everyone around you. I’m grateful for every lift, every practice, every rep, every conversation we got to share. I’ll carry those with me for the rest of my life.”
The Big 12 Conference also extended its condolences.
