James Ivory Thaxton (born January 11, 1949) is an American former professional football tight end who played five seasons in the National Football League (NFL) with the San Diego Chargers, Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints and St. Louis Cardinals.
[2] 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.
[3] On September 24, 1974, Thaxton was traded to the Cleveland Browns for a 1975 sixth round draft pick.
[4][5] He proceeded to play in 12 games, starting four, for the Browns during the 1974 season, catching four passes for 71 yards while also making one interception and one fumble recovery.