Smarter About Sports: My Life Navigating Athletes, Agents, Media, and the Business of the NFL

A thoughtful, clear-eyed exploration of a sports industry driven by three essential forces: leverage, money, and relationships. “You make us all smarter.” That’s what ESPN’s Mike Tirico once told Andrew Brandt—and it’s the foundation of this illuminating, behind-the-scenes memoir from one of the most trusted voices in sports business. For more than two decades, Andrew Brandt has lived at the intersection of money, law, and sports—first as a player agent, then as vice president of the Green Bay Packers during the franchise’s most iconic quarterback transition, and now as a widely respected educator and analyst for ESPN and Sports Illustrated. In this new book, Brandt pulls back the curtain on the modern sports industry, revealing what really happens behind the deals, decisions, and drama. With sharp insight and rare access, he explores the true dynamics between players, agents, general managers, and owners, as well as the often-invisible legal and financial forces shaping every major move in sports today. From negotiating with Brett Favre and drafting Aaron Rodgers to navigating Ricky Williams’ roller-coaster career to helping launch the NFL’s European expansion, Brandt’s journey offers a masterclass in how sports really work. For die-hard NFL fans and curious spectators, this essential read illuminates the game behind the games we love. Read more