Football legend Brown hopes LeBron James stays put

American gridiron legend Jim Brown says he hopes LeBron James can sort out his contract details and remain in the city of Cleveland for a long time.

The Cleveland Browns Hall of Fame running back Brown played his entire career in the city.

James can leave Cleveland as a free agent after this season.

"Looking at the fact that it is a business, I put that first," Brown said. "But having said that, I would love to see him be here. I think it's a terrific marriage."

James and Brown met each other before Tuesday night's National Basketball Association game in Cleveland.

James says he looks up to Brown.

"Anytime you can be mentioned with a great and be able to continue the legacy he built here in Cleveland, is humbling for me," James said.

"We both know how much the fans love sports and I have had to learn to keep the momentum going after he passed the torch."

Brown was inducted into the American football Hall of Fame in 1971. He was the first round pick of the Browns in 1957 and played in nine Pro Bowl games.