Cole Dutkovich brings proven tackling, playmaking, and veteran linebacker instincts to SEMO
Dutkovich enters Southeast Missouri State as a seasoned **senior linebacker** with a reputation for production and impact: in the 2024 season at College of DuPage, he appeared in 10 games and posted **42 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 2 interceptions, and 2 fumble recoveries**, while also earning NJCAA Defensive Player of the Week honors for his outing against Iowa Central.[1][2] He was named a **2026 OVC preseason defensive player to watch**, signaling that coaches value his instincts, consistency, and turnover-creating ability beyond raw stat lines.[11] A two-time Illinois all-state standout in high school, he profiles as a high-motor defender who fits a team needing reliable run support and disruptive coverage from the second level.[1][2][7]
