May 29, 1962 - Jim Brown, a fullback who has set several NFL records with his powerful runs, put another in the books today. He signed a contract for his sixth season with the Cleveland Browns at a salary reported to make him the highest paid player in pro football. The former Syracuse all-American, who considered retiring to enter business last winter, said he was “looking forward to having a fine year and plan to give 100%, as I always do.” Arthur B. Modell, president of the Browns, said reports that Brown signed for $42,000 were incorrect, but he did say that Brown’s salary “is the highest in professional football.” The 228-pound fullback has led the NFL in rushing for a record 5 consecutive season, compiling a total of 6,463 yards on 1,269 carries for a 5.1-yard average. Brown said he had considered quitting football and devoting full time to his off-season job with a soft drink company, but decided to continue his football career after the company assured him a good job would be waiting for him when he retired.
