James Patrick Kelly (November 9, 1892 – August 19, 1964) was an American professional football halfback who played one season in the American Professional Football Association (APFA) with the Detroit Heralds.

[1] After his college career, Kelly was a member of the Detroit Heralds in 1918 and was listed as a halfback.

[1] The Heralds joined the American Professional Football Association for the league's first season in 1920.

Kelly played in six games, starting three, for the Heralds that year as a tailback/defensive halfback.

[1][2] Kelly spent time as a youth sports coach after his playing career.