Northern Iowa Freshman Football Player Parker Sutherland Dies at 18

The university did not reveal the cause of the young athlete's death.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Northern Iowa tight end Parker Sutherland, a freshman football player, died on Saturday at the age of 18. The university did not disclose the cause of death, but reported that Cedar Falls Fire & Rescue responded to a call at the university's athletics facilities on Thursday, where several sources said Sutherland had collapsed during a workout.

Why it matters

The sudden and tragic death of a young college athlete has shaken the Northern Iowa community and raises questions about player safety and support systems for student-athletes dealing with physical and mental health challenges.

The details

Parker Sutherland was a freshman tight end who had played in four games for the Northern Iowa Panthers football team this past season. He was a second-team All-State performer in high school and also played basketball and baseball. Sutherland is survived by his parents, Adam and Jill, and his sister, Georgia.

  • On Thursday, Cedar Falls Fire & Rescue responded to a call at the university's athletics facilities.
  • On Saturday, the university announced Sutherland's passing at the age of 18.

The players

Parker Sutherland

An 18-year-old freshman tight end on the Northern Iowa football team who tragically passed away.

Megan Franklin

The Director of Athletics at the University of Northern Iowa, who expressed devastation over Sutherland's passing.

Todd Stepsis

The head coach of the Northern Iowa football team, who said he was 'heartbroken' over the loss of Sutherland.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It is a heartbreaking day for our Panther Athletics family with the passing of our Parker Sutherland. He embraced the opportunity to play Panther football and represent the University through sport.”

— Megan Franklin, Director of Athletics, University of Northern Iowa (University statement)

“I'm heartbroken. No words can express my condolences to Adam, Jill and Georgia. Parker embodied everything we look for in a UNI Football Panther. His talent and potential excited us on a daily basis, but it failed to compare to the type of person and teammate he was. His character, humility, toughness and genuine love of others are what champions are made of.”

— Todd Stepsis, Head Coach, Northern Iowa Football (University statement)

What’s next

The university has not announced any specific next steps, but is likely to provide support and counseling services to the football team and broader campus community as they grieve the loss of Parker Sutherland.

The takeaway

This tragic loss of a young life highlights the importance of comprehensive health and wellness support for student-athletes, as well as the need for further research and protocols to ensure player safety at all levels of college sports.