Deontavis Cooperwho is expected to make his NCAA debut at Tulane University in the fall, died after being involved in a single-car accident in Florida on Saturday, May 23. He was 17 years old.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the sad news of the passing of Deontavis Cooper, who tragically lost his life this weekend,” the Tulane football program said in a statement on Sunday, May 24. “He was a 2026 graduate of Thomas County Central High School in Thomasville, Georgia, and was committed to joining the football program.”
The statement continued, “As an incoming member of the Green Wave, Deontavis demonstrated dedication, tenacity, and a positive attitude. His passion for the game and his unwavering commitment were evident in everything he did, and he was on his way to making a significant impact both on the field and in the community.”
The accident happened around 11:00 Saturday night and left two men, 18, in critical condition, according to local station WCTV. Cooper, an offensive lineman, was sitting in the back seat of a sedan, which went onto the shoulder of the road and hit the curb, sending it into the air and into a telephone pole.
The car overturned and Cooper was ejected from the seat and pronounced dead at the scene.
“There are no sad words for us today,” his coach at Thomas County Central High School in Georgia, Justin Rogershe said in a Facebook post on Sunday. “Big Coop was one of those rare guys who could light up a room with his smile and make everyone around him feel important. He loved people and treated others with kindness.”
Rogers continued, “We are excited to see him begin the next chapter of his life at Tulane next week and continue to pursue his dream of playing college football. Although that dream is cut short, the impact he has on his teammates, coaches, teachers, friends and family will last forever.”
Colorado quarterback Dominiq Ponder has died. He was 23 years old. “The University of Colorado Athletic Department is saddened by the loss of Dominiq Ponder,” the school said in a statement to Us Weekly, confirming that the athlete died in a car accident. The Buffaloes are scheduled to begin their spring practice program on Monday, March 2, there […]
Cooper signed with Tulane in June 2025, days after visiting the American Conference school in New Orleans. With a three-star commitment, he also considered offers from South Alabama, Cincinnati, UCF, Arkansas State and East Carolina, according to 247 Sports.
“In honoring Deontavis, let’s remember him for his extraordinary spirit, his kindness, and the joy he brought to those around him,” Tulane’s statement concluded. “He remains a valued member of the Tulane community.”
