James Albert Hird (born February 4, 1973) is an Australian former Australian rules footballer and captain of the Essendon Football Club. A versatile player who could play in a key forward position, the midfield or as a sweeper in defence, he is generally considered to be one of the greatest and most fearless of all time .

A long-time captain of the Bombers, Hird is admired not only for his on-field bravery, but his exceptional ability to anticipate the course of play. This benefitted not only his own play but that of his teammates, making him one of the most effective club leaders in modern times. With one notable exception (see the section on "umpiring controversy" below), he is universally respected for his good behaviour on and off the field, and has been an articulate, effective spokesperson for his club in extensive media work. He suffered serious head injuries in a collision with teammate Mark McVeigh in May, 2002 which almost forced him into retirement, but he recovered and continued to play a vital role in the Essendon team.