Sports Management Worldwide
The Global Leader in Sports Business Education Sports Management Worldwide
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Turn Your Football Knowledge Into a Pro Front Office Career
Learn how to scout talent, build rosters, and analyze film like an NFL GM—with mentorship from real insiders
Whether you dream of working in the NFL, college football, the CFL, or the new UFL, this 8-week online course will teach you how to:
Evaluate talent like a pro scout
Break down film like a coach
Master roster construction and salary cap strategy
Prepare for the NFL Draft, free agency, and trade deadlines
Network your way into the football industry
You’ll learn directly from NFL insiders while building a professional-grade scouting portfolio you can showcase to teams, leagues, and decision-makers.
The Most Respected Football Scouting Course in the World
For over 20 years, SMWW's Football GM & Scouting Course has has helped aspiring professionals launch careers in:
All 32 NFL Teams
Power 5 NCAA programs
CFL, UFL, and international leagues
Pro scouting & analytics firms like PFF, Sports Info Solutions, Next Gen Stats, STATS LLC
Media outlets like ESPN, The Athletic, and Fox Sports
20+ Years • 1,000+ Alumni • Every Level of Football
NEXT START DATE: September 8
NEXT START DATE: September 8
Weekly Live Interactive Zoom Chats With Russ Lande
Built By Football Executives — For the Next Generation of Football Executives
What You Will Learn
This isn’t theory. It’s hands-on, real-world front office training.
Pro scouting & player evaluation
Film breakdown with NFL techniques
Draft strategy & team-building
Roster & contract management
Personnel department structure
Career paths in NFL, NCAA, CFL , UFL & beyond
Meet Your Mentorship Team:
Dr. Lynn Lashbrook – NFL Agent & SMWW Founder John Wooten – NFL Executive Legend, Chair Emeritus of Fritz Pollard Alliance Dane Vandernat – CFL Director of Pro Scouting, Former Raiders Exec Russ Lande – NFL/CFL Scout & Draft Analyst, Media Contributor
Course Format & Tools
8-week online course
Weekly live Zoom chats
All materials and textbooks included
Scouting reports personally reviewed by NFL scouts
This isn’t just theory. You’ll complete scouting reports that are personally reviewed by a veteran NFL scout—the same way pro departments evaluate incoming staff.
Week 1 – Football Front Office Fundamentals
Learn how NFL & NCAA scouting departments are structured, how pro and college scouting overlap, and what separates good evaluators from great ones.
Week 2 – Mastering the NFLPA CBA
Understand the rules that drive every roster decision: salary cap, rookie contracts, trades, IR, and the economics of building a team.
Week 3 – Scouting Offensive Skill Positions
Evaluate quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends using pro-level grading scales. Learn how to spot decision-making, instincts, and traits that translate.
Week 4 – Offensive Line Scouting & Positional Value
Break down OL technique: footwork, leverage, hand use, body control. Learn how to grade linemen for power vs zone schemes.
Week 5 – Defensive Schemes & System Fit
Know your fits. Learn how teams build defensive systems and why “scheme diversity” changes a player’s value. Study base alignments, coverage shells, and front mechanics.
Week 6 – DL & Edge Evaluation + Roster Construction
Scout pass rushers, 3-techs, run defenders and how they align with personnel groupings. Begin to build your own position group draft board.
Week 7 – Defensive Back & Linebacker Traits
Learn how to identify range, recognition, reaction time, route anticipation, and coverage versatility. Write full reports on key defensive playmakers.
Week 8 – General Manager Strategy & Draft Execution
Build your mock war room. Study how GMs build rosters, layer contracts, stack draft boards, and manage coaching staff alignment. Learn how to lead an organization.
What Makes This Course #1
20+ Year Track Record
The original online football scouting and front office course—established in 2003 and still leading the industry.
Taught by Active NFL & CFL Executives
Your instructors are current scouts, GMs, and player personnel directors—working in the game right now.
Live Weekly Zoom Mentorship
Engage directly with football executives and guest speakers from the NFL, CFL, and NCAA.
Hands-On Scouting Assignments
You’ll complete real scouting reports—personally reviewed and evaluated by veteran NFL scouts.
Alumni in Every NFL Team
Over 1,000 graduates now working across the NFL, CFL, Power 5 NCAA, and top media & data outlets.
Clear Career Path
Successful students gain access to the SMWW Scouting Network and may qualify for the Football Apprenticeship with in-person experience at events like the Senior Bowl & NFL Combine.
John Wooten – NFL Executive Legend & Diversity Trailblazer
When John Wooten speaks, the football world listens.
Nicknamed “The Godfather” of the NFL, Wooten has shaped the game from every angle—as a player, scout, agent, and front office executive. He’s a former personnel leader for the Cowboys, Eagles, and Ravens, and one of the most respected voices in football leadership.
As Chairman of the Fritz Pollard Alliance, Wooten played a critical role in the creation and evolution of the Rooney Rule, opening doors for minority coaches and executives across the league.
“Respectfully, professionally, and affectionately, John Wooten is known as the Godfather, because of the breadth and depth of his service.”
— Ray Anderson, Former NFL Executive VP
As a longtime mentor in the Football GM & Scouting Course, John Wooten brings unmatched wisdom, candor, and personal insight into the NFL’s highest levels. His name on your résumé—and in your weekly Zoom chat—is a career changer.
Dane Vandernat
Dane Vandernat – CFL Director of Pro Scouting, Former Raiders Exec
Dane Vandernat knows what teams are looking for—because he’s the one doing the looking.
Currently the Director of Pro Scouting for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (CFL), Dane previously served as Director of Player Personnel for the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl and spent nearly a decade in the Oakland Raiders’ front office. There, he rose from intern to Director of Pro Personnel, overseeing daily scouting operations and working closely with the GM.
Dane’s football journey includes:
Evaluating hundreds of free agents and draft prospects annually
Managing player grades, pro scouting departments, and databases
Direct NFL and CFL team consulting
He’s passionate about preparing the next generation of scouts. As your mentor, Dane will train you in the actual scouting methods used inside team facilities—ensuring you know what it takes to get hired.
Russ Lande
Russ Lande – NFL/CFL/XFL Scout & Media Analyst
With over 30 years in the scouting world, Russ Lande brings unmatched expertise in talent evaluation and draft strategy.
Russ began his football journey as an intern at UCLA before becoming a Scouting Administrator for the Rams, then a Midwest BLESTO Scout with the Cleveland Browns. He’s since worked with multiple CFL teams, consulted for NFL front offices, and remains active in XFL personnel evaluation.
Russ also bridges the gap between scouting and media:
Founder of GM Jr. Scouting
Draft analyst for Fox Sports, Sporting News, and The Athletic
Host of scouting shows and contributor to draft content on multiple platforms
Most importantly, Russ personally reviews and gives detailed feedback on every scouting report you submit during the course. You’ll leave this class with NFL-grade writing samples—and the ability to break down film like a pro.
Weekly Interactive Zoom Video Chats: A unique aspect of each 8-week course is the opportunity for students to participate in weekly, live interactive Zoom video chats with fellow students, John Wooten, Russ Lande, Dane Vandernat, Dr. Lashbrook, and occasional guests. Get to know your Mentors and fellow students personally.
Online Education: You will enjoy the online discussion boards, weekly readings, weekly quizzes, course projects. All course materials and textbooks are included in the course fee.
Global Participation: SMWW students participate from over 163 countries. Courses have an international influence and instructors will cater assignments to specific countries or leagues. Countries with economic challenges are eligible for economic discounts.
University Credit Available: For additional fees to Fort Hays State University in Kansas, you may receive graduate or undergraduate university credit for Sports Management Worldwide's courses. Click here for more information.
Optional NFL Combine & Senior Bowl Events: SMWW students & faculty are invited to the NFL Combine Career Conference in Indianapolis and the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. These events offer unmatched access to NFL executives, scouts, and agents. Students & Alumni are encouraged to attend to apply their skills, grow their network, and meet their mentors in person. All SMWW students and alumni always enjoy special pricing.
Football Front Office Advanced Certificate:Our Advanced Certificates have been hand-selected by our team of sports industry experts to put you on a path to success. These bundles of courses allow you to take advantage of our biggest discount and ensure you become an expert in that field.
Military Discount: For those individuals who represent their country in military service, (active, reserve, or retired) we offer a discount. Thank you for serving your country! For more information on the Military Discount Click Here.
Tax Write Off - (For USA Citizens): SMWW course tuition, books, and supplies can be used for education tax credits. Save your receipts and consult with your tax advisor on how this applies to you.
Includes all course textbooks and access to a web-based classroom. Shipping is additional.
PRICE IN
APPROXIMATELY $1950
If we offer an economic discount in your country, it is included in the estimate above. Exact pricing including the discount is shown before you complete checkout. Payment plan options are provided during checkout.
PAYMENT METHODS:
Prerequisites: Must be 18 or older to participate and have a passion for sports.
CALL TODAY: 1-877-SMWW-NOW
(In the UK: 087 12884799)
The Football GM & Scouting course gave me the tools I need to start a career in scouting, and probably most important, the resources and contacts to get started - I not only still attend the chats with Russ on a weekly basis but I have been able to make key contacts with other current NFL personnel that will hopefully lead to me getting my start with a team. After putting together a portfolio full scouting reports on 50 players eligible for this year's draft I applied with several teams immediately after the draft. I really can't say enough about the opportunities SMWW has given me!
The Football GM & Scouting course gave me the tools I need to start a career in scouting, and probably most important, the resources and contacts to get started - I not only still attend the chats with Russ on a weekly basis but I have been able to make key contacts with other current NFL personnel that will hopefully lead to me getting my start with a team. After putting together a portfolio full scouting reports on 50 players eligible for this year's draft I applied with several teams immediately after the draft. I really can't say enough about the opportunities SMWW has given me!
The Football GM and Scouting Course gave me a great foundation. The main reason for taking the course was to get an understanding for the procedures and techniques of scouting in professional football. Thanks to SMWW, I am working with the Orlando Predators of the Arena Football League as an assistant to the Director of Player Personnel. So the course was a huge help in the development of my career.
The Football GM and Scouting Course gave me a great foundation. The main reason for taking the course was to get an understanding for the procedures and techniques of scouting in professional football. Thanks to SMWW, I am working with the Orlando Predators of the Arena Football League as an assistant to the Director of Player Personnel. So the course was a huge help in the development of my career.
My educational experience with SMMW was exceptional. I wanted to advance my knowledge in the field of Sports Management and enhance my skills as a professional. The courses exceeded my expectation and the instructors were qualified professionals in the sports management industries. I highly recommend SMWW to any professional looking to grow both at a professional and personal level.
My educational experience with SMMW was exceptional. I wanted to advance my knowledge in the field of Sports Management and enhance my skills as a professional. The courses exceeded my expectation and the instructors were qualified professionals in the sports management industries. I highly recommend SMWW to any professional looking to grow both at a professional and personal level.
Taking the course of General Manager and Scouting from SMWW was exactly what I needed as I transition from being a College Head Football Coach to scouting and or personnel on next level. Dr. Lashbrook was right when he suggested this course would be perfect for someone with my expertise in football. Special thanks to Russ, Mark and John for sharing their experiences in our live chats.
Taking the course of General Manager and Scouting from SMWW was exactly what I needed as I transition from being a College Head Football Coach to scouting and or personnel on next level. Dr. Lashbrook was right when he suggested this course would be perfect for someone with my expertise in football. Special thanks to Russ, Mark and John for sharing their experiences in our live chats.
The confidence and techniques that Russell Lande instilled in me were right on the money. I felt stagnant in life until he layed out the framework of how to enter the Scouting world. Once I completed the course and updated my resume, the interviews came
The confidence and techniques that Russell Lande instilled in me were right on the money. I felt stagnant in life until he layed out the framework of how to enter the Scouting world. Once I completed the course and updated my resume, the interviews came pouring in.
This course has the ability to change the football information and knowledge of any person willing to learn and adapt to the NFL way, I enjoyed the Sunday chats, because you don't have to be a ex-NFL guy nor do you have to be plugged in, with the opportunity to learn and invest into yourself you can make a football career somewhere to help change lives and change your life with the investment into yourself. It's definitely worth it.
This course has the ability to change the football information and knowledge of any person willing to learn and adapt to the NFL way, I enjoyed the Sunday chats, because you don't have to be a ex-NFL guy nor do you have to be plugged in, with the opportunity to learn and invest into yourself you can make a football career somewhere to help change lives and change your life with the investment into yourself. It's definitely worth it.
After completing the Football GM and Scouting course I've learned so much information that was taught by incredible instructors Russ Lande, Dane Vandernat, and John Wooten. The inspiring stories that each of these professional had told was truly a special gift. I couldn't believe that I was actually on a zoom chat with these guys who has had a career that I dream about. And interacting with the rest of my classmates hearing there stories in life and sharing my story as well, this was truly a great experience for me. Thank you Dr. Lashbrook for providing such a great Platform for individuals who want to advance in sports.
After completing the Football GM and Scouting course I've learned so much information that was taught by incredible instructors Russ Lande, Dane Vandernat, and John Wooten. The inspiring stories that each of these professional had told was truly a special gift. I couldn't believe that I was actually on a zoom chat with these guys who has had a career that I dream about. And interacting with the rest of my classmates hearing there stories in life and sharing my story as well, this was truly a great experience for me. Thank you Dr. Lashbrook for providing such a great Platform for individuals who want to advance in sports.
I took this course in hopes of furthering my football career. Through the course, I learned a lot about the business in the NFL and also techniques on scouting players as both an athlete and also on their character. I am currently a high school football coach and middle school teacher. This summer I will also be the camp manager for the Philadelphia Eagles youth football camp. I feel having this course on my resume greatly helped with this opportunity.
I took this course in hopes of furthering my football career. Through the course, I learned a lot about the business in the NFL and also techniques on scouting players as both an athlete and also on their character. I am currently a high school football coach and middle school teacher. This summer I will also be the camp manager for the Philadelphia Eagles youth football camp. I feel having this course on my resume greatly helped with this opportunity.
Director of Football Operations, The Moberly Group LLC
I took the Football GM & Scouting class to pursue my dreams of working for a NFL team. What I have gained from it, is a hard-core inside look into the NFL and what teams look for as a NFL player. I'm currently working as a director of football operations. I would recommend any individuals that are looking to become a sports agent and/or work in football take the time to invest in any of the SMWW classes. I took two. SMWW teaches you and helps you understand what it takes to be one of the best sports agents in this industry
Director of Football Operations, The Moberly Group LLC
I took the Football GM & Scouting class to pursue my dreams of working for a NFL team. What I have gained from it, is a hard-core inside look into the NFL and what teams look for as a NFL player. I'm currently working as a director of football operations. I would recommend any individuals that are looking to become a sports agent and/or work in football take the time to invest in any of the SMWW classes. I took two. SMWW teaches you and helps you understand what it takes to be one of the best sports agents in this industry
Recently I was hired by the NFL to work as a Game Day QA Analyst for the Next Gen Stats project this season. I'm really excited to get started with the league and I owe my experience to the Football GM & Scouting class a debt of gratitude because it provided me with a solid foundation of player evaluation.
Recently I was hired by the NFL to work as a Game Day QA Analyst for the Next Gen Stats project this season. I'm really excited to get started with the league and I owe my experience to the Football GM & Scouting class a debt of gratitude because it provided me with a solid foundation of player evaluation.
I took the Football GM and Scouting course over the summer and I loved everything about it. It taught me some insights of the league that I didn't know about. Our mentors, Russ Lande, Mark Dominik, and John Wooten were amazing and would answer any question that I had for my live chats. This course helped lay the foundation that I plan on turning into a career. If your wanting to learn more about being a GM and scouting in the NFL then I highly recommend taking this course.
I took the Football GM and Scouting course over the summer and I loved everything about it. It taught me some insights of the league that I didn't know about. Our mentors, Russ Lande, Mark Dominik, and John Wooten were amazing and would answer any question that I had for my live chats. This course helped lay the foundation that I plan on turning into a career. If your wanting to learn more about being a GM and scouting in the NFL then I highly recommend taking this course.
SMWW gives you the chance to get your foot in the door in the competitive world of sports. I took the football GM and scouting course and it was an incredible experience, being able to talk to ESPN Analyst and former Tampa Bay Buccaneers GM Mark Dominik every week along with John Wooten, Russ Lande, and Dr. Lashbrook was absolutely awesome. You get out what you put in when it comes to the courses, so if you want to work in sports and you are committed to working your tail off than I would recommend SMWW to anyone.
SMWW gives you the chance to get your foot in the door in the competitive world of sports. I took the football GM and scouting course and it was an incredible experience, being able to talk to ESPN Analyst and former Tampa Bay Buccaneers GM Mark Dominik every week along with John Wooten, Russ Lande, and Dr. Lashbrook was absolutely awesome. You get out what you put in when it comes to the courses, so if you want to work in sports and you are committed to working your tail off than I would recommend SMWW to anyone.
I took the Football GM and Scouting course because I was finishing coursework for a minor in Athletic Administration. I gained alot of good insight into the art of scouting, insight that helped me advance in my profession. Particularly what measurables were most important in scouting a player at each position. I also became familiar with language and acronyms used in scouting athletes. Currently I am coaching LB's at Western Washington University.
I took the Football GM and Scouting course because I was finishing coursework for a minor in Athletic Administration. I gained alot of good insight into the art of scouting, insight that helped me advance in my profession. Particularly what measurables were most important in scouting a player at each position. I also became familiar with language and acronyms used in scouting athletes. Currently I am coaching LB's at Western Washington University.
SMWW helped me take a first step towards my career goal of becoming a NFL General Manager. If I didn't take that first online class, and attend the Football Career Conference, who knows what would've happened.
SMWW helped me take a first step towards my career goal of becoming a NFL General Manager. If I didn't take that first online class, and attend the Football Career Conference, who knows what would've happened.
I feel that the Football GM and Scouting course has helped me to gain a better insight on how a professional football team operates, and the coach's office and playbook were really helpful to me.
I feel that the Football GM and Scouting course has helped me to gain a better insight on how a professional football team operates, and the coach's office and playbook were really helpful to me.
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Weekly Interactive Zoom Video Chats: A unique aspect of each 8-week course is the opportunity for students to participate in weekly, live interactive Zoom video chats with fellow students, John Wooten, Russ Lande, Dane Vandernat, Dr. Lashbrook, and occasional guests. Get to know your Mentors and fellow students personally.
Online Education: You will enjoy the online discussion boards, weekly readings, weekly quizzes, course projects. All course materials and textbooks are included in the course fee.
Global Participation: SMWW students participate from over 163 countries. Courses have an international influence and instructors will cater assignments to specific countries or leagues. Countries with economic challenges are eligible for 
University Credit Available: For additional fees to Fort Hays State University in Kansas, you may receive graduate or undergraduate university credit for Sports Management Worldwide's courses. 
Optional NFL Combine & Senior Bowl Events: SMWW students & faculty are invited to the 
Military Discount: For those individuals who represent their country in military service, (active, reserve, or retired) we offer a discount. Thank you for serving your country! For more information on the Military Discount 
Tax Write Off - (For USA Citizens): SMWW course tuition, books, and supplies can be used for education tax credits. Save your receipts and consult with your tax advisor on how this applies to you.
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