Oldest Living Former Clemson Football Player Passes Away

John Poulos, who caught Clemson's first touchdown pass in a bowl game, dies at 99

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

John Poulos, the first Clemson football player to catch a touchdown pass in a bowl game, passed away Wednesday morning at a hospital in Gaffney, South Carolina. Poulos was believed to be the oldest living former Clemson football player prior to his passing, just eight months and two days short of his 100th birthday.

Why it matters

Poulos' passing marks the end of an era for Clemson football, as he was a key player on some of the program's most successful teams in the late 1940s. His touchdown catch in the 1948 Gator Bowl was a historic moment for the Tigers.

The details

Poulos lettered as an end on the Clemson teams of 1944, 1947, 1948 and 1949, playing in 33 games over his four seasons, including 20 as a starter. He was a reliable receiver for Frank Howard's teams, finishing his career with 17 receptions for 384 yards and five touchdowns. His most important contribution came in the 1948 Gator Bowl, where his nine-yard touchdown reception from Bobby Gage gave Clemson a 21-14 lead in the third quarter on the way to a 24-23 victory.

  • Poulos passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
  • Poulos was born on October 13, 1926, and was just eight months and two days short of his 100th birthday at the time of his passing.

The players

John Poulos

The first Clemson football player to catch a touchdown pass in a bowl game, Poulos lettered as an end on the Clemson teams of 1944, 1947, 1948 and 1949, playing in 33 games over his four seasons, including 20 as a starter.

Frank Howard

The head coach of the Clemson football team during Poulos' playing career.

Bobby Gage

The quarterback who threw the touchdown pass to Poulos in the 1948 Gator Bowl.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Clemson University is expected to hold a memorial service to honor Poulos' legacy and contributions to the football program.

The takeaway

Poulos' passing marks the end of an era for Clemson football, as he was one of the last remaining links to the program's early success in the 1940s. His touchdown catch in the 1948 Gator Bowl will be remembered as a defining moment in Clemson history.