Tony Canadeo Biography

Anthony Robert Canadeo was born on May 5, 1919, and played as a back in the NFL for the Green Bay Packers from 1941 to 1952, missing most of 1944 and all of 1945 due to military service. Born in Chicago, Illinois, he played college football for Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, where he earned the nickname Gray Ghost of Gonzaga. In 1943, Canadeo led the Packers in both rushing and passing as a triple-threat halfback. After returning from service in 1946, he primarily played as a running back and became the third NFL player to rush for 1,000 or more yards in a season during 1949. Following his playing career, Canadeo served as a color commentator for CBS television, covering Packers games with Ray Scott. As a senior in 1940, he played a key role in Gonzaga's 13–7 upset victory over the University of Detroit. In 1942, as a backup to Isbell, Canadeo passed for 310 yards and rushed for 272 yards.