He guided the Jefferson High School Cougars of Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia to the state playoffs in 1988.

Jett played college football at West Virginia University where he was a four-year starter at receiver.

Jett entered the 1989 season as the only true freshman to play on the eventual Gator Bowl team.

Jett entered his sophomore season in 1990 as the leading returning receiver for the Mountaineers, who lost both Rembert and Harris.

Jett totaled his best statistical season in his career, recording 31 receptions for 652 yards and 2 touchdowns.

His all-purpose yardage was fifth on WVU's all-time career list, while his receiving totals was eighth at the time of his graduation.

He also outran eventual Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis in the 100 meters during prelims to the games.

Jett ran the first two rounds of the 4 x 100 m relay in Barcelona, then gave his spot in the finals to Carl Lewis.

James Jett signed with the Los Angeles Raiders as an undrafted free agent following the 1993 NFL draft.

He was one of two Los Angeles Raiders to remain with the team through Super Bowl XXXVII (the other being fellow wide receiver Tim Brown).