Former college football standout and professional linebacker Cameron Ontko has died at just 33 years old.
Ontko, who briefly pursued an NFL career before spending several seasons in the Canadian Football League, passed away on March 7. His mother, Brenda Boulton, later shared on social media that the cause of death was a ruptured ulcer.
Cal Poly, where Ontko became a star linebacker, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement.
“Cal Poly mourns the loss of former linebacker Cameron Ontko,” the school wrote. “Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and former teammates.”
Originally from Ohio, Ontko began his college football career at the University of Wisconsin. During his two seasons with the Badgers from 2010 to 2011, he primarily contributed on the defensive scout team.
Looking for a bigger opportunity, he transferred to Cal Poly in 2012 — a move that would transform his football career.
At Cal Poly, Ontko quickly became a defensive force. Over 35 games with the Mustangs, he racked up 257 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, seven pass breakups, two sacks and two interceptions.
His standout senior season in 2014 earned him First Team All–Big Sky Conference honors.
Despite his impressive college production, Ontko’s size — listed at 5-foot-11 and 220 pounds — raised concerns for NFL scouts, and he went undrafted.
Still determined to chase his dream, Ontko earned a tryout at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ rookie minicamp in 2015. Although he didn’t make the final roster, the opportunity allowed him to compete alongside top draft picks, including quarterback Jameis Winston.
Ontko eventually continued his professional career north of the border in the Canadian Football League.
He played three seasons in the CFL, appearing in 29 games with the Calgary Stampeders in 2015, the BC Lions in 2016, and the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2017.
After several years in professional football, Ontko made the difficult decision to retire at just 26 years old. He cited concerns about the long-term health effects of repeated hits to the head — an issue that has affected many former players.
Those who knew him remember Ontko not just for his work on the field, but for his personality off it.
“Very sad to hear of the passing of Cam Ontko,” wrote John Murphy, who worked in Saskatchewan’s personnel department during Ontko’s time with the team.
“From Cal Poly to the NFL and CFL, I met him several times along his path to pro football. Great guy, an energizer-bunny type personality. Praying for everyone who knew Cam, his friends and family.”
Ontko’s sudden passing has left former teammates, coaches and fans mourning the loss of a player whose passion for football and upbeat spirit made a lasting impression.
