Former Buccaneers Linebacker Cameron Ontko Dies Suddenly at 33

A small-college standout who participated in a Tampa Bay Buccaneers camp before playing three seasons in the CFL died at age 33.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:36pm

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Cameron Ontko, a standout small-school college linebacker who briefly took his game to the NFL before playing three years in the CFL, died on March 7 at the age of 33. His mother indicated his cause of death was a ruptured ulcer.

Why it matters

Ontko's sudden passing at a young age is tragic, and his story highlights the risks and challenges faced by players trying to make it in professional football, especially those coming from smaller college programs.

The details

Ontko began his collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin before transferring to Cal Poly, a Big Sky Conference school, where he recorded 257 total tackles, 15 tackles for loss, seven pass knockdowns, two sacks, and two interceptions over 35 games. After his standout senior season in 2014, Ontko participated in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' rookie minicamp in 2015 but did not make the team. He then went on to play 29 games over three seasons in the Canadian Football League for the Calgary Stampeders, BC Lions, and Saskatchewan Roughriders before retiring at age 26 due to concerns over the long-term effects of hits to the head.

  • Ontko died on March 7, 2026.
  • Ontko participated in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' rookie minicamp in May 2015.
  • Ontko played 29 games in the CFL from 2015 to 2017 before retiring at age 26.

The players

Cameron Ontko

A standout small-school college linebacker who briefly took his game to the NFL before playing three years in the CFL.

Brenda Boulton

Ontko's mother, who indicated his cause of death was a ruptured ulcer.

Jameis Winston

The quarterback who Ontko rubbed elbows with during the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' rookie minicamp in 2015.

John Murphy

Worked in Saskatchewan's personnel department during Ontko's tenure with the team.

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What they’re saying

“Very sad to hear of the passing of (Ontko). From Cal Poly to NFL and CFL, met him several times along his path to pro football. Great guy, energizer bunny-type personality and on the field, just praying for everyone that knew Cam and his friends and family.”

— John Murphy, Personnel department, Saskatchewan Roughriders

The takeaway

Ontko's story is a tragic reminder of the risks and challenges faced by players trying to make it in professional football, especially those coming from smaller college programs. His sudden passing at a young age highlights the need for continued research and support for player safety and well-being, both during and after their playing careers.