Colorado Buffalos quarterback Dominiq Ponder has died at the age of 23, his team have confirmed.
Ponder, who was born in Houston, Texas, was involved in a single-car crash in the early hours of Sunday morning, according to police.
Colorado State Patrol have stated (via Associated Press) that Ponder lost control of his car, a 2023 Tesla, on a curve before then hitting a guardrail.
His car then struck an electrical line pole, before rolling down a nearby embankment.
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The Colorado Athletics Department paid tribute to the 23-year-old, who played two games during his sophomore season of 2025, in a statement published to social media.
The Department's Director of Athletics, Fernando Lovo, said: "The entire CU Athletics family is devastated at the tragic passing of Dominiq Ponder.
"He epitomised the values of passion, enthusiasm, leadership, toughness and intelligence that were revered by his teammates and coaches alike.
"Our hearts go out to his family and all of his teammates during this difficult time."
Two-time Super Bowl winner Deion Sanders, who is now head coach of Colorado Buffalos, wrote: "God please comfort the Ponder family, friends & Loved ones.
"Dom was one of my favourites! 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. Comfort us Lord Comfort us."
Ponder's Buffalo team-mate Colton Allen, who is also a quarterback, also paid tribute, 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."
Topics: NFL, American Football, United States
Ryan Smart