Fantasy football has become an integral part of the NFL fan experience, offering enthusiasts a way to feel more connected to the game.
But when it comes to NFL players themselves, can they join in on the fun?
The answer is yes, but there are specific rules they must follow.
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NFL players and Fantasy Football: What’s allowed?
While the NFL has strict rules against sports betting, fantasy football operates in a different space.
NFL players, along with coaches and other personnel, are allowed to participate in fantasy leagues.
However, there’s a key stipulation: they cannot win more than $250 in any fantasy football league.
Anything beyond that amount is seen as gambling, which the league strictly prohibits.
This exception reflects how the NFL views fantasy football.
Despite its popularity and close ties to the league, fantasy football is not classified as gambling-at least not in the eyes of the NFL.
As long as players don’t cross the $250 threshold, they’re free to manage their teams just like any other fan.
To clear up any confusion, the NFL has made it clear that fantasy football, as long as there’s no significant prize money, does not fall under the gambling category.
The league views fantasy football as a game of skill rather than chance, which explains why it’s allowed under certain conditions.
According to NFL guidelines, even activities like club-sponsored competitions or racquetball tournaments can offer prizes, as long as there’s no betting involved.
NFL’s strong stance on betting
The NFL takes sports betting much more seriously.
Players and team personnel are banned from placing any bets on NFL games, and the penalties for violating this rule are severe.
The league has handed down suspensions ranging from a few games to lifetime bans for players who have engaged in sports betting.
Calvin Ridley’s suspension for the entire 2022 season is a prime example of the consequences that come with gambling on league games.
In some cases, NFL players have even faced punishment for betting on other sports while on team property.
This was evident during the 2023 offseason when several Detroit Lions players, including Jameson Williams, were suspended for placing wagers on college football while at team facilities.
So, while NFL players are allowed to play fantasy football, they must be cautious about how they participate.
The league’s stance on fantasy is relatively lenient, but any violation of the $250 rule could result in punishment.
And when it comes to betting on actual NFL games, the league leaves no room for error, with harsh consequences in place for those who break the rules.
