Turner Signs $6-Million, Four-Year Contract With Browns

Safety Eric Turner, the second player picked in the NFL draft, signed a four-year, $6-million contract with the Cleveland Browns on Sunday that includes a record signing bonus of $3.15 million.

Unlike most NFL signing bonuses for first-round picks, none of Turner’s money is deferred. He will make salaries of $550,000 in 1991, $600,000 in ‘92, $700,000 in ’93 and $1 million in ’94. According to a source familiar with the negotiations, Turner’s signing bonus is the richest in the NFL and the total package is among the highest for a rookie defensive player.

Turner, a UCLA safety, was the highest-drafted defensive back since Gary Glick was chosen No. 1 by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1956.

“I’m glad it’s over,” Turner said. “I’m looking forward to becoming a football player again.”

Turner’s contract leaves 20 first-round selections unsigned. He is expected to step in and replace Felix Wright, who went to Minnesota as a Plan B free agent.