Before the very first NFL draft in 1936, at the top of the decade the Bears saw their chance to get a great runningback in 1930 and leaped at the opportunity.
Before the end of the season that Fall, Joe Savoldi (known as "Jumping Joe")
in college, suddenly came available when Notre Dame let him go. This sudden move by a reputable college football program was due to a rule of the time that banned players who were married from playing college intramurals. I know, interesting, right!?
So, mid-season, Joe became available and Chicago swooped him up, signing him for an incredible $4,000 / game including his cut of the gate proceeds. Without that added bonus, he was contracted to make $500 a game. Once they figured out what was up with Joe's uniquely lavish contract of the day, guys quit playing for him, leaving him out to dry when he was handed the ball. They figured, if he's gonna get paid that kinda money, than he doesn't need anyone to block for him. The offensive lineman in 1930 were making $50 / game, and that didn't include gate receipts. So, Joe was on his own. It got so bad, that when he was handed the ball he would just fall down. Three games into his professional career he retired, and moved on from football to become a professional wrestler. --- by J Nussbaumer