James Dearth

James Dearth (born January 22, 1976) is an American former professional football player who was a long snapper in the National Football League (NFL). Dearth played college football for the Tarleton State Texans and was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the sixth round of the 1999 NFL draft.

He was also a member of the Tennessee Titans, New York Jets, Washington Redskins, San Diego Chargers and New England Patriots.

Early life Dearth attended Scurry-Rosser High School in Scurry, Texas and was a student and a letterman in football. In football, he was a starter at both, quarterback and middle linebacker, and was an All-State honoree at both positions.

Professional career

Cleveland Browns Dearth was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the sixth round (191st overall) of the 1999 NFL draft. He signed with the team on July 22, and was released on September 3. He was signed to Cleveland's practice squad on November 23. He was released on April 18, 2000. In that same year he recorded a career-high three receptions and a touchdown. Following the season, Dearth was relegated to long snapping duties and was a consistent part of the Jets' special teams unit until he became a free agent and was replaced by Tanner Purdum following the 2009 season.

Washington Redskins On August 14, 2010, Dearth signed with the Washington Redskins. Dearth was expected to compete with the "inconsistent" Nick Sundberg.

San Diego Chargers The San Diego Chargers signed Dearth on September 15, 2010, after a hamstring injury saw long snapper David Binn placed on injured reserve. Two days later on September 17, 2010, Dearth suffered a foot injury during practice and was subsequently placed on injured reserve before playing a game for the Chargers.

New England Patriots Dearth signed with the New England Patriots on August 29, 2011. He was released on September 4.

Personal Dearth is married to his wife, Laurie, with whom he has three children, Kaitlyn, Kendall, and Kolton. Dearth, a devout Christian, is known to be a "low-key and cordial" person.

Dearth used to co-own an Athletic Republic franchise in the Houston area with friend and former Jets running back Derrick Blaylock. The facility opened in December 2009 aiming to help young athletes prepare for professional careers.