Zutavern Named to Associated Press All-American Team

CRETE, Neb. – Doane senior linebacker Reece Zutavern has been named to the Associated Press NAIA All-America Team, earning Second Team honors and capping off a dominant 2025 campaign in which he led the nation in tackles per game (11.8) and ranked among the most productive defenders in the country.

The senior standout anchored the Tigers' defense all season, finishing with 118 total tackles (47 solo, 71 assisted) across 10 games. Zutavern recorded four tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and added both a forced fumble and a 35-yard interception return in Doane's game against Dakota Wesleyan. His consistency set the tone for the Tigers defensively, posting double-digit tackles in seven games and recording a season-high 19 stops at Concordia (Neb.).

Zutavern's 11.8 tackles per game not only led the NAIA but also solidified his reputation as one of the toughest and most reliable defenders in the Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC). His All-America honor from the Associated Press recognizes the top performers across all NAIA programs nationwide, underscoring his impact as one of the premier defensive players in small-college football.

"Reece embodies everything you want in a leader and a great example of culture," said Doane head coach Jonathan Johnson. "He showed up every day and worked his butt off, taking advantage of every opportunity in the spring and summer to improve. That carried over and showed on the field this year. I cannot say enough about what he has meant to our program and he will be missed."

This marks the latest accolade in Zutavern's career, following All-GPAC honors and a senior season that will be remembered among the best in program history. His 118 tackles rank among the highest single-season totals (8th overall) in Doane's history, further cementing his legacy in orange and black.

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