Tony Canadeo

Team Number:	3
Birth Date:	05/05/1919
Height:	6'0"
Weight:	190lbs.
Position:	Running Back

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Chicago native Tony Canadeo began playing for the Packers in early 1940s and instantly became an All Star for the team. Canadeo played both offense and defense, proving to be a versatile and valuable player throughout his 11-year career. He played for Goganza University out of Spokane, WA throughout college and then went on to be chosen in the ninth round of the 1941 draft. Though not a highly sought after recruit, he proved the team wrong quickly and became one of the only four players to have their numbers officially retired by the team. During his time with the Packers, he rushed 4,197 yards, recorded 69 receptions for 579 yards, passed for 1,642 yards, gained 513 yards on punt returns, 1,736 yards on kickoff returns, and scored just under 190 points. He accounted for nearly 75 yards in each of the 116 games he played throughout his career. With his help, the Green Bay Packers were one of the highest rated pro football teams from 1941 through 1944. After returning from the army in 1946 because of World War II, his role was solidified as a running back, a position in which he excelled. He became the third player Green Bay Packer to rush for more than 1,000 yards in a season in 1949. Canadeo retired after the 1952 and was the team’s all-time leading rusher at the time. Over the next fifty years, only three Packers players have beaten this record. After his retirement, he stayed close with the team through broadcasting. He became a member of the executive committee, befriended Vince Lombardi, and was given the honor of being a Hall of Fame member. He passed away in November of 2003 at the age of 84. His legacy continued after his death and for the rest of the season the Packers players wore a sticker to pay tribute to Canadeo featuring a black football with his number (3) inside of it.