Northern Iowa TE Parker Sutherland dies at 18: Freshman appeared in four games for the Panthers in 2025
CBS Sports
by
Cody Nagel
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Northern Iowa freshman tight end Parker Sutherland tragically passed away at the age of 18, leaving a profound impact on his family, teammates, and the UNI community. The cause of death remains unclear but was linked to an incident at the UNI Dome, where emergency services responded to a report of an unconscious individual. Sutherland, who had appeared in four games for the Panthers during the 2025 season, was celebrated for his talent and character.
A native of Iowa City, Sutherland was a standout athlete in multiple sports, earning second-team all-state honors as a senior at Iowa City High School in 2024. His brief yet promising college career with UNI saw him quickly rise as a valued player and team member. Coach Todd Steckis reflected on his time with the Panthers, describing Sutherland as a person of exceptional character who embodied the values of the program.
The news has deeply affected the sports community, particularly those connected to UNI Athletics. Director Megan Franklin emphasized the unity within the Panther family during this difficult time, as they grieve together and support each other through their shared loss. Sutherland’s death serves as a poignant reminder of the pressures faced by young athletes and the importance of prioritizing mental and physical health.
While his time on the team was short, Sutherland left an indelible mark on UNI football.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/14/2026