ODESSA, Texas (October 6, 2026) – Linebacker McKyle So'oto of the No. 23 University of Texas Permian Basin football team has been named the D2Football.com Defensive Player of the Week for "Week 5."

So'oto led a Falcon defense that produced five turnovers in an upset road victory over No. 15 (D2Football.com Poll) Northeastern State. So'oto's day included 15 total tackles, 10 solo tackles, two tackles for loss and one sack. He also added an interception that he returned 28 yards into plus territory. McKyle So'oto is a redshirt senior from Oceanside, California.

"We talk about playing with a steady, Permian Basin type of work ethic, and you see that every time you watch McKyle So'oto," said UTPB Head Football Coach Chris Softley. "We are thankful for the Max Out mentality that McKyle brings to our team and are incredible proud of his steadiness, preparation and commitment to his craft. His work off the field shows up on gameday because he has already seen the play unfold in his mind before the ball is snapped. McKyle's consistency and preparation have made him a tremendous player and an outstanding representative of our program. We are proud to see him recognized for his work. It is another great day to be a Falcon."

This award comes after So'oto was named the Lone Star Conference Defensive Player of the Week, the third Falcon defensive player to earn the weekly honor already this season.

This is also the third national defensive player of the week award earned by the Falcons over the last two seasons.

So'oto and the Falcons are 4-1 so far this season and return to LSC action this weekend at West Texas A&M University. The action will begin at 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 10, from Canyon, Texas.