Home Sweet Home: LSU Legend Tommy Casanova Returns to Baton Rouge as Special Assistant to the Athletic Director
Baton Rouge is welcoming back one of its most celebrated football legends, as Tommy Casanova, the former LSU All-American and NFL Pro Bowl star, has officially returned to Tiger Nation in a new role as Special Assistant to the Athletic Director. The announcement, made Friday by LSU Athletics, marks a homecoming for the iconic player whose name remains synonymous with grit, leadership, and Tiger pride.
Casanova, widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive backs in college football history, played for LSU from 1969 to 1971. A three-time All-American and College Football Hall of Fame inductee, he later starred for the Cincinnati Bengals, earning three consecutive Pro Bowl selections before retiring from football in 1977 to pursue a career in medicine. His remarkable journey from All-SEC standout to practicing physician solidified his reputation as a man of discipline and character, both on and off the field.
In his new role, Casanova will serve as a mentor to LSU’s student-athletes, working closely with Athletic Director Scott Woodward and his leadership team. His duties will include alumni engagement, leadership development, and helping foster the culture of excellence that LSU Athletics has become known for.
“Tommy Casanova is the embodiment of what it means to be a Tiger,” Woodward said in a press release. “His unique experiences as a student-athlete, professional player, and physician give him unmatched perspective to guide our next generation.”
Casanova’s return is being celebrated by fans and former teammates, many of whom view him as one of LSU’s most iconic ambassadors. For Casanova, the role represents a heartfelt reunion with his alma mater and an opportunity to give back to the program that launched his remarkable journey.