Stu Clarkson

A Life of Grit, Service, and Championship Football

Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Stu Clarkson was a two-time Little All-American at Texas A&I before going on to play linebacker for the Chicago Bears, helping secure the 1946 World Championship. A World War II veteran who landed at Utah Beach on D-Day, Clarkson later returned to the sidelines as a coach, leading with the same toughness that defined his playing days. His legacy reflects courage, leadership, and deep Coastal Bend roots.

Legacy

Stu Clarkson’s life was defined by toughness—on the field, in service, and on the sidelines.

A Corpus Christi native, Clarkson starred at Texas A&I, earning Little All-American honors before being selected in the 1942 NFL Draft. He went on to play linebacker for the Chicago Bears, contributing to their 1946 World Championship season during one of the most physical eras of professional football.

Between his playing years, Clarkson served in the United States Army during World War II, landing at Utah Beach on D-Day as part of the Allied invasion of Normandy.

After his professional career, he returned to coaching, continuing to shape young athletes until his passing on the sidelines in 1957. Clarkson’s story is one of courage, commitment, and lasting Coastal Bend pride.