The University of Northern Iowa football program announced the death of tight end Parker Sutherland on Saturday morning. Sutherland was a true freshman during the 2025 season and a native of Iowa City, Iowa.
UNI athletics did not immediately reveal the cause of death. The program has since released a statement from head coach Todd Stepsis on Sutherland’s passing and the shocking news.
“I’m heartbroken,” said Stepsis, per release. “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. 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.”
Following the announcement, many who knew him took to social media to share condolences to his friends and family, as well as sharing what he meant to them and how he impacted their lives. Among those was his high school, City High in Iowa City, where he was a multiple-sport athlete for his hometown high school.
“Parker played basketball, football, and baseball during his time at City High,” they wrote. “He never failed to pick his teammates up or make them smile. He was a Little Hawk through and through. We extend our deepest condolences and support to Parker’s family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.”
Hayden Vlaanderen, a friend of Sutherland and a football player for Mount Mercy, a NAIA program in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, shared a message about Sutherland, who was a former teammate of his. He called Sutherland “the most energetic and positive teammate I’ve ever met in my life.”
UNI defensive line coach Christian Nussbaum also shared a touching tribute: “Parker was a fantastic football player and even greater human. Our hearts ache for the Sutherlands. Please keep his family and our team in your prayers. We love you, Parker.”
According to the press release published by the school, Sutherland’s family is asking for time and space as they mourn their loss. Sutherland is survived by his parents, Adam and Jill, and his sister, Georgia.