Jim Thaxton

James Ivory Thaxton (born January 11, 1949) is an American former professional football player who was a tight end for five seasons in the National Football League (NFL) with the San Diego Chargers, Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints and St. Louis Cardinals. He was selected by the Chargers in the fourth round of the 1973 NFL draft. He played college football for the Tennessee State Tigers.

Early life and college James Ivory Thaxton was born on January 11, 1949, in Brownsville, Tennessee. He attended George Washington Carver High School in Memphis, Tennessee.

Professional career Thaxton was selected by the San Diego Chargers in the fourth round, with the 84th overall pick, of the 1973 NFL draft. He played in ten games, starting three, for the Chargers during his rookie year in 1973, catching seven passes for 119 yards and two touchdowns. He appeared in two games for the Chargers in 1974 but did not record any statistics. He played in five games for the Cardinals in 1978, totaling three receptions for 31 yards and one touchdown.