January 1st, 1963 Steve Wright’s Green Bay Packers Rookie Contract

Steve Wright’s Original NFL Contract: A Piece of Football History

A Glimpse into the Past

In the realm of football memorabilia, few items capture the essence of the sport’s history like an original player’s contract. We are thrilled to present Steve Wright’s original “National Football League Standard Players Contract,” a document that not only signifies a player’s commitment to the game but also offers a rare insight into the business side of professional football during its formative years.

Details of the Contract

This contract, executed on distinctive blue legal paper, is a testament to the era’s legal formalities and the evolving nature of player agreements. Accompanying it is the “Excerpts from By-Laws of the National Football League,” printed on white legal paper, further emphasizing the meticulous attention to detail that governed the league’s operations.

• Financial Terms: The agreement outlines 18 respective promises, including a salary of $13,000, with 75% of said salary to be paid in equal semi-monthly installments.
• Signing Bonus: The 18th promise, handwritten, states, “The Club To Pay A Bonus of $9,000.00 Over And Above,” highlighting the significance of signing bonuses even in the early days of the NFL.
• Signatures: The contract is autographed by “John Rochran” and “Stephen T. Wright,” both signatures executed in blue ink and each rating a 9, underscoring their authenticity and preservation.

Condition and Accompaniment

The contract is in very good (VG) condition overall, a remarkable feat considering its age and the delicate nature of legal documents. It is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA, ensuring its provenance and significance in the world of sports memorabilia auctions.

Why This Contract Matters

This contract is more than just a piece of paper; it is a window into the past, offering a glimpse of the financial and legal frameworks that shaped the careers of early NFL players. It stands as a testament to the evolution of player contracts and the growing importance of financial negotiations in professional sports.

For collectors and enthusiasts, this document represents an opportunity to own a tangible piece of NFL history, a relic from a time when the league was still carving out its identity and players like Steve Wright were laying the groundwork for future generations.

Explore more about our consignment opportunities and discover how you can be part of preserving sports history. Whether you’re looking to sell your own memorabilia or simply appreciate the rich tapestry of sports heritage, Grey Flannel Auctions is your gateway to the past.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.