The University of Northern Iowa football program is mourning the loss of freshman tight end Parker Sutherland, who passed away following a medical emergency during an offseason workout.
UNI Athletics announced Sutherland’s death Saturday morning. He was a true freshman during the 2025 season and a native of Iowa City, Iowa. The university did not immediately disclose the official cause of death.
According to a report from the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier, a UNI student-athlete suffered a medical emergency Thursday morning inside the UNI-Dome. Sources confirmed that the player collapsed during what was described as a grueling offseason workout. Additional reports indicate the emergency may have involved a heart attack.
Emergency personnel responded quickly, and the university followed established medical protocols. Despite efforts to save him, Sutherland later passed away.
Sutherland had recently joined the Panthers football program and was considered a hardworking young athlete at the start of his collegiate career. His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the UNI community and across college football, prompting an outpouring of support, condolences, and prayers from teammates, coaches, alumni, and fans.
The university is expected to provide counseling and support services for student-athletes and staff as they grieve the loss of a teammate and friend.
Further details will be released as they become available.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Parker Sutherland’s family, his teammates, and the entire University of Northern Iowa community.
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