Tommy Casanova was a second-round pick from LSU who had a legendary pedigree as a three-time consensus All-American and future College Football Hall of Famer. A rare multi-dimensional athlete who played both ways in college, Casanova brought fluid range, sharp instincts, and versatility to Paul Brown’s secondary.

Casanova confidently entered the starting lineup as a rookie at free safety, instantly catching attention with five interceptions and two returned for touchdowns. His impressive play earned him his first Pro Bowl honor in 1974, after securing four interceptions and providing vital stability to the Bengals' secondary. When the coaches moved him to strong safety in 1975, his tough physical style in stopping runs flourished, all while maintaining his sharp coverage abilities.

His best individual campaign came in 1976, when he earned a second Pro Bowl selection while serving as the defensive cornerstone of a top-10 Bengals scoring defense. Casanova achieved a third Pro Bowl selection in 1977, thereby solidifying a period of dominance during which he was acknowledged as one of the premier safeties in the AFL/AFC across the middle. In addition to his responsibilities in the secondary, Casanova demonstrated his versatility as a dynamic special teams contributor, returning 90 punts for 784 yards during his tenure with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Casanova made the unexpected decision to retire at the top of his game following the 1977 season at just 27 years old to pursue an ophthalmology degree. Following his medical career, he transitioned into politics, eventually serving as a Republican state senator in the Louisiana State Senate.

During his six seasons with the Bengals (1972–1977), Casanova played 71 regular-season games (62 starts) and two postseason games, recording 17 interceptions, three defensive touchdowns, five fumble recoveries, and 784 punt return yards.