University of Northern Iowa football player Parker Sutherland died on February 14 at age 18. The freshman tight end collapsed during warm-ups at a routine workout on Thursday morning and was hospitalized. Head coach Todd Stepsis confirmed he passed away two days later. The cause of death has not yet been released.
UNI Athletic Director Megan Franklin said the Panther community is “devastated” by the loss, describing Sutherland as someone who proudly represented the university through football. Stepsis also expressed condolences to Sutherland’s family.
The Iowa City native played in four games during his freshman season in 2025 and previously earned second-team all-state honors at Iowa City High School while also excelling in basketball and baseball.
Sutherland is survived by his parents, Adam and Jill, and his sister, Georgia. His family has asked for privacy as they grieve. The Panthers football team honored him during their Saturday night game.