Fantasy football turns every Sunday into a friendly competition. You pick real NFL players, they score points for you, and you compete against friends or family. Here is how to start a free league, even if you have never played.
- How fantasy scoring works
- How to create a free league
- How the draft works
- Weekly lineup basics
How Fantasy Football Works
Each person in the league is a “manager”. Before the season (or when your league starts), managers take turns choosing NFL players in a draft. Every week, the stats your players produce in real games, such as yards and touchdowns, turn into fantasy points. You face one other manager each week, and the higher score wins.
Free Apps to Start a League
The two apps below let you create free private leagues for friends and family. ESPN describes all of its fantasy games as completely free to play.
You can also manage your league on the web at ESPN Fantasy Football or Yahoo Fantasy Football.
Create Your League in 6 Steps
- Download the app and create an account.
- Tap “Create a league” and choose a free, private league.
- Pick the number of teams (8, 10 or 12 work well for beginners).
- Keep the standard scoring and roster settings for your first season.
- Invite people with the link the app creates.
- Schedule the draft at a time everyone can join.
A Typical Roster
| Position | How many | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Quarterback (QB) | 1 | Many good options; no need to pick one first |
| Running back (RB) | 2 | Scarce and valuable |
| Wide receiver (WR) | 2 | Look for players who get many targets |
| Tight end (TE) | 1 | A few stand out; the rest are similar |
| Flex (RB/WR/TE) | 1 | Your best remaining player |
| Kicker (K) and Defense (DEF) | 1 each | Pick them in the last rounds |
| Bench | 5-7 | Backups for injuries and bye weeks |
How Scoring Works
- Touchdowns are worth the most points (usually 6 for running and receiving touchdowns).
- Yards add up: in standard scoring, about 1 point per 10 rushing or receiving yards.
- In PPR (point per reception) leagues, every catch adds a point, which helps receivers.
- Turnovers, such as interceptions and fumbles, take points away.
Draft Tips for Beginners
- Use the app’s rankings. The default list is a good guide for your first draft.
- Running backs and receivers first. They score most of your points.
- Wait on kickers and defenses until the final rounds.
- Do not draft only your favorite team. If they have a bye week, your whole lineup sits.
- Try autodraft if you cannot be there; the app picks for you based on rankings.
Every Week: Set Your Lineup
- Check injuries and bye weeks (each NFL team has one week off during the season).
- Move injured or resting players to the bench.
- Use the waiver wire to pick up free agents who are playing well.
- Trade with other managers if your team needs help at a position.
NFL RedZone, part of NFL+ Premium, is a favorite of fantasy players on Sundays; see our NFL app guide.
Fantasy Words to Know
| Term | What it means |
|---|---|
| Commissioner | The person who creates and runs the league |
| Snake draft | The draft order reverses every round, so everyone gets fair picks |
| Waiver wire | Players no one owns, available to add to your team |
| Bye week | The week an NFL team does not play |
| Flex | A lineup spot for a running back, receiver or tight end |
| PPR | Point per reception: each catch is worth a point |
Make It Fun for the Whole Family
- Mix experience levels. Pair a beginner with an experienced fan as co-managers.
- Pick fun team names and let kids design the logos.
- Play for bragging rights: the winner chooses the next family dinner, the last place does the dishes.
- Talk about the week in the league chat, not just about winning.
Mid-Season Tips
- Do not panic after one bad week; players have ups and downs.
- Watch for players getting more chances because a teammate is injured.
- Check the playoff schedule of your fantasy league; most end before the last NFL week.
- Learn the rules of the real game as you go; our NFL rules guide helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it cost anything to play fantasy football?
Not on ESPN or Yahoo private leagues, which are free. Avoid real-money contests if you are just starting.
Can I start a league after the season begins?
Many apps let you create a league during the season; scoring starts with the next week of games after your draft. Check the app’s deadlines.
How much time does it take each week?
About 10 to 15 minutes to check injuries and set your lineup. You can spend more if you enjoy it.