Colorado quarterback Dominiq Ponder has passed away at the age of 23.

Early on Sunday morning, Ponder was involved in a single-car accident in East Boulder. According to the Colorado State Patrol, Ponder lost control of his car and struck a guardrail and an electrical post. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

“The entire CU Athletics family is devastated at the tragic passing of Dominiq Ponder,” CU athletic director Fernando Lovo said in a statement. “He epitomized 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.”

Ponder spent two seasons with the Buffs after transferring from HBCU Bethune-Cookman in 2024, playing in two games with Colorado. His impact came largely off the gridiron, where Ponder was widely regarded as a leader and favorite of many in the locker room, including head coach Deion Sanders.

Despite the tragic news, Colorado decided to kick off spring practice as scheduled on Monday, because that’s what Dominiq would have wanted.

During this difficult time, we at Ralphie Report want to express our thoughts and prayers to Dominiq’s familiy and those who loved him, along with those in the Colorado Football family who have been greatly impacted by his passing.