Opinion: Scouting Report Writing – What shouldn’t you do?

Yesterday we covered report-writing basics in terms of what you should do as an evaluator.  Here is what you should not do.

Don’t Do This

Don’t listen to draft experts or recruiting experts. Do your own work.  Tune out the media; reading and watching them will cause you to have certain biases.  Some of them are very knowledgeable (and Mel Kiper does have great hair), but you have to understand that you are paid for your opinion.  Evaluate the film, not the hype.

Avoid using over-the-top descriptive phrases or adjectives.  Example: “He runs like a bat out of hell.”  Instead: “Has exceptional breakaway speed.”  This also makes your report more concise.

Never call players animals.  It’s really stupid and unprofessional.  Use professional and effective language.  Example: “He’s a dawg.”  Instead: “Plays with outstanding effort.” 

Do not write lengthy evaluations!  This was a huge mistake that I made during the earlier years of my career.  I thought writing more meant more.  What I discovered with experience is that you can say a lot with less.  Furthermore, when presenting your report verbally, reading your entire two-page evaluation is not something the staff has the time or energy for.  Try not to write to show off your football knowledge.

Don’t keep things too brief.  This is where it gets tricky.  `You need to be straightforward without being too short.  Instead of saying: “Great leg drive, great hand use, strong lateral set.”  Perhaps devote a short sentence to each quality. 

Next week: Attending a game/camp!