College Football Player Parker Sutherland Dead at 18

The University of Northern Iowa freshman passed away just 10 days before his birthday.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Parker Sutherland, a college football standout at the University of Northern Iowa, has died at the age of 18. The school announced his passing on Saturday, though they declined to provide a cause of death out of respect for the family. Sutherland was a freshman who had appeared in four games for the UNI football team during the season.

Why it matters

The death of a young college athlete is always a tragic event that shakes the campus community. Sutherland was described as embodying the values that the UNI football program looks for, making his passing even more impactful for his teammates, coaches, and the broader university.

The details

According to reports, first responders were called to a UNI athletics facility regarding an "unconscious/fainting (non-trauma)" incident, though it's unclear if that is directly connected to Sutherland's passing. The school's head coach, Todd Stepsis, expressed his heartbreak over the loss, highlighting Sutherland's character, humility, toughness, and love of others.

  • Parker Sutherland passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
  • Sutherland was just 10 days away from his 19th birthday.

The players

Parker Sutherland

An 18-year-old college freshman and football player at the University of Northern Iowa who passed away unexpectedly.

Todd Stepsis

The head coach of the University of Northern Iowa football team, who expressed his grief over Sutherland's death.

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What they’re saying

“While I'm saddened that our time together was short, we will celebrate the bright light that he brought to our football team for the rest of our lives.”

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

The takeaway

The tragic and untimely death of Parker Sutherland, a promising young college football player, has left the University of Northern Iowa community in mourning. His coaches and teammates will remember him as an embodiment of the program's values, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.