Colorado Football Community Mourns After Quarterback Dominiq Ponder Dies at 23 in Car Crash
The University of Colorado Buffaloes and the wider college football world are in mourning following the tragic death of Dominiq Ponder, a 23-year-old quarterback for the Buffaloes, who died early Sunday morning in a single-vehicle car crash in Boulder County, Colorado.
According to the Colorado State Patrol, the accident occurred around 3 a.m. Sunday when Ponder was driving a 2023 Tesla Model 3 on Baseline Road. Police say he lost control of the vehicle on a curve, causing it to cross into the opposite lane. The car struck a guardrail, then an electrical line pole, and ultimately rolled down an embankment before catching fire. Ponder was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities indicated that speed is suspected to be a factor, though a full investigation is ongoing.
Ponder, a native of Opa Locka, Florida, transferred to Colorado in 2024 after beginning his college career at Bethune-Cookman University. He spent two seasons with the Buffaloes and appeared in games during the 2025 season, including his collegiate debut against Arizona.
Tributes Pour In From Coaches, Teammates and Conference
Head coach Deion Sanders, who led Ponder during his time with the Buffaloes, shared an emotional message on social media, expressing deep sorrow and asking for prayers for the Ponder family. “Dom was one of my favorites!” Sanders wrote, calling him “loved, respected & a born leader.”
Colorado’s athletic director, Fernando Lovo, also issued a statement highlighting Ponder’s passion, leadership, and character, saying the entire athletics community was “devastated” by his passing.
Teammates posted heartfelt tributes online, with fellow quarterback Colton Allen describing Ponder as a “blessing” who brought joy to those around him and saying he was grateful for every moment they shared.
The Big 12 Conference extended its condolences, acknowledging the loss and offering support to the Ponder family and the University of Colorado community.
A Life and Career Cut Short
Ponder’s journey to Boulder began in Florida, where he played high school football before earning his first college opportunity at Bethune-Cookman. After transferring to Colorado, he worked to contribute to the Buffaloes’ offense and was preparing to compete for playing time in the 2026 season.
The tragic news came just before Colorado was scheduled to begin spring practice on Monday, leaving teammates and coaches with a profound sense of loss as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Source: ESPN
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
