David Ponder


David Earl Ponder is a former American football defensive tackle in the National Football League for the Dallas Cowboys. He played college football at Florida State University.

Early years

Ponder attended Cairo High School in Cairo, Georgia. He accepted a scholarship from Florida State University where he was a two-year starter at nose guard and defensive tackle for the Seminoles. In 1982, he was moved from defensive tackle to nose guard to replace an injured Lennie Chavers. The next year, he was moved back to defensive tackle.

Professional career

Dallas Cowboys

Ponder was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Dallas Cowboys after the 1984 NFL Draft. He played defensive tackle and was waived on August 27, 1984.
In 1985, Ponder was re-signed and appeared in four games before being released on October 26.

Los Angeles Raiders

On November 21, 1985, he was signed by the Los Angeles Raiders. He was released two days later on November 23.

Buffalo Bills

On May 6, 1986, he signed as a free agent with the Buffalo Bills to play nose guard. He was cut on August 17.

Calgary Stampeders

In 1986, he signed with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League. He was released on October 19.

Personal life

His son Christian played quarterback for the Florida State Seminoles while in college and the Minnesota Vikings in the National Football League.