James Yeats

James Melvin Yeats (January 21, 1936 – September 4, 2023) was an American professional football tight end who played for the Houston Oilers of the American Football League (AFL). He played college football at the University of Florida.

Early life and college James Melvin Yeats was born on January 21, 1936, in Bee County, Texas. He was raised in Beeville and Corpus Christi, Texas.

Professional career Yeats signed with the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League on May 1, 1959. His last name was incorrectly misspelled as "Yates" on his 1960 Fleer trading card. Yeats played in the Oilers' season opener on September 11, 1960.

In June 1961, it was reported that Yeats would be joining the AFL's Denver Broncos for training camp. He officially signed with the team in July. He left the team later that month for a job opportunity.

Personal life Yeats died on September 4, 2023, at the age of 87. He was married to Barbara Burns from 1954 until his death. He worked at Reynolds Metals until retiring. Yeats also served as a University Interscholastic League referee for youth sporting events in Texas.