Betting.us Editor-in-Chief Blake Roberts skillfully uses his background in statistics and sports knowledge base to create insightful betting guides. Blake was born in Morgantown, WV, and he has a community college degree in Statistics. His stamping grounds are the live betting platforms of West Virginia.
Best Fantasy Football Sites for 2024
By Blake Roberts
Founder & Editor in Chief at Betting.us
Updated: April 3, 2024
Best Fantasy Football Apps for May 2024
With our refined selection of fantasy football apps in the USA, you can play legally, from a number of states in the country. These apps work flawlessly whether you are out and about or at home.
| Fantasy Football Site | Sign Up Bonus | Promo Code | Highlights | Rating | Secure Link | Eligible States | Terms |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | Up to $500 In DK Dollars | Check Here | Best Ball contests $5 minimum deposit iOS and Android apps | ★ out of 5 | Play Here! | AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MT, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WV, WI, WY | Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Help is available for problem gambling. Call (888) 789-7777 or visit ccpg.org(CT). 18+ in most eligible states, but age varies by jurisdiction. Eligibility restrictions apply. |
| OwnersBox | Up to $500 1st Deposit Bonus | Check Here | Lightning Lineups SuperFlex NFL DFS mode Fast payouts on NFL contests | ★ out of 5 | Play Here! | AL, AK, AR, CA, CO, FL, GA, IL, KS, KY, MD, MA, MN, MO, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WV, WI, WY, DC | Valid only for new players over 21 years of age. |
| ParlayPlay | Up to $100 Deposit Match | Check Here | $5 in promo funds Option to track picks Free2Play lobby | ★ out of 5 | Play Here! | AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, DC, FL, GA, IL, KS, MA, MN, NE, NM, NC, ND, OK, OR, RI, SC, SD, TX, UT, VT, WI | Valid only for new players over 21 years of age. |
When we pick fantasy football websites, we go for versatile platforms that are suitable for both beginners and advanced players. The shortlisted operators fit that description perfectly, with their user-friendly websites and tailor-made apps, which average ratings from 4.6 to 4.9 stars on the App Store.
There, you can find dozens of competitions, cash prizes, and other players just like you. They kindly let you know when a contest is about to start, how many entrants there are, and what potential prizes you can expect. This is why, in our book, these are some of the best daily fantasy sites out there.
DraftKings – Best Site for Fantasy Football
This is a brand that needs no introduction, but we will give one anyways. DrafKings became popular exactly by virtue of its fantasy football section. Its platform offers a unique angle at fantasy sports, with contest types like Best Ball, Flash Draft, and Single-Game Showdown.
If that's a bit too much for you, focus on the immediate benefits the operator gives you. A welcome bonus says more than a thousand words. In this case, you are given a deposit match that will bolster your finances and allow you to enter more of the numerous competitions available.
OwnersBox – Top Flash Drafts Option
This is one of the more socially active daily fantasy football brands out there. OwnersBox is actively seeking to engage with its user base, and we think this is great. Aside from joining their Discord server, you can download their Android or iOS app and enjoy streamlined gameplay whether you are at home or on the street.
Another great thing about the platform is its availability. At the moment, OwnersBox's fantasy football games aren't available only in 14 states. If ease of access isn't enough, they have a sign-up bonus giving you free entry to the Lightning Lineups and SuperFlex DFS.
ParlayPlay – Easy to Play
If you've ever had difficulties navigating daily fantasy football sites, you should try ParlayPlay. It boasts, by far, the easiest-to-navigate interface of all platforms we've reviewed. It has helpful tooltips and on-screen instructions that will take even a beginner through the initial stages of playing fantasy football.
Another cool feature is that you can track the picks of others. You don't have to wonder what different players are doing; the platform gives you access to that information. Last but not least, you are entitled to a deposit bonus as a new player. While the package is not as generous as the competition's, the terms and conditions are more favorable.
Best Daily Fantasy Football Sites by Category
| 🥇 #1 Fantasy Football Site | DraftKings |
|---|---|
| 🥇 Best Bonus | OwnersBox |
| 🥇 Newest Site | ParlayPlay |
| 📱 Best Fantasy Football App | OwnersBox |
Even the best football betting sites can be sorted into categories to spotlight their strengths. We are particularly interested in choosing the best platform for fantasy football bonuses and the one with the most practical app. We explored these and other areas to help people with specific preferences choose the most suitable platform.
Recommended Fantasy Football Website for May 2024
While there are many reasons to recommend a daily fantasy football website, we usually stick to the ones that are central for safe and legal gameplay. Our current top pick has a lot more than that, though. It gives you a rewarding welcome bonus and dozens of NFL contests to choose from.
DraftKings
Up to $500 In DK Dollars
Check Here
Best Ball, In-Game Showdowns, Flash Draft, 50/50s
AL,
AK,
AZ,
AR,
CA,
CO,
CT,
DE,
FL,
GA,
IL,
IN,
IA,
KS,
KY,
LA,
ME,
MD,
MA,
MI,
MN,
MS,
MT,
NE,
NH,
NJ,
NM,
NY,
NC,
ND,
OH,
OK,
PA,
RI,
SC,
SD,
TN,
TX,
UT,
VT,
VA,
WV,
WI,
WY
Bet Here!
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Help is available for problem gambling. Call (888) 789-7777 or visit ccpg.org(CT). 18+ in most eligible states, but age varies by jurisdiction. Eligibility restrictions apply.
What Is Fantasy Football – Getting Started
Fantasy football sites offer an interactive experience to players who create a virtual team. After joining a league[3], participants act as team managers, putting together and managing everything about their teams. A fantasy NFL team consists of real NFL players. Having knowledge of the sport is recommendable, but not mandatory to take part.
While this activity is widely popular in the United States, since there's real money involved, some states are on the fence about legalizing it. This boils down to how permissive the gambling laws are because some states still recognize fantasy football apps as a prohibited form of gambling.
It's true that real money is being risked when playing, but the essence of fantasy football is something entirely different. The real-life statistical performance of the sportsmen you've chosen determines how many points you earn[1]. This is, clearly, a game of choices and correct assessment, more than anything else.
How to Play Daily Fantasy Football
Though it's simple to get your foot in the door, the game will push your knowledge and management skills to the limit. It all starts with drafting a team of professional NFL players that will represent you virtually. It's clear this step doesn't require any specific knowledge or talents.
If you want to learn, we have great news – many of the platforms have well-written guides and other resources. The goal is very simple and will be familiar to those who also compete in daily fantasy basketball. Players need to accumulate enough points to stay at the top of the rank list. Every move of your chosen player counts – touchdowns, yards gained, and a number of other achievements.
The Draft
The draft is the stage during which you select your team of NFL players. If the league has a re-draft rule, that means you have to make a new team every new season. In leagues with the opposite rule, you are allowed to keep your team. Drafts usually take place in August or at the start of September.
You can employ strategies to achieve a balanced team that performs well. The obvious one is not to overload one position. Pick players who can perform well in different positions because injuries are also a thing in the sport. Though there are alternatives like 2-QB leagues[2] where you start with two quarterbacks, the standard line-up composition looks something like this:
- 1 Quarterback (QB)
- 2 Running Backs (RB)
- 2 Wide Receivers (WR)
- 1 Tight End (TE)
- 1 Flex (RB/WR/TE)
- 1 Defense/Special Teams (D/ST)
- 1 Kicker (K)
- 7 Bench Spots (BE)
Scoring Formats
The are various scoring formats in existence, but the most common one is assigning points for touchdowns, yards gained, field goals, rushing, passing, kicking, and receiving. Besides, there are custom settings that make the competition even more interesting.
If that's not enough, besides standard scoring, you could diversify play by joining a Points Per Reception league or an Individual defensive Player league. These two reward the act of catching and good defensive stats, respectively. An example of standard scoring would look something like this:
- TD Pass = 4 pts
- TD Rush = 6 pts
- TD Reception = 4 pts
- FG Made (60+ yards) = 6 pts
- Kickoff return – TD = 6 pts
- Each interception = 2 pts
- 0 Points allowed = 5 pts
The scoring system has levels to it. For example, let's say your team allowed between 1 and 6 points. You are still going to get something for the good defensive job, though that will not be a full 5 pts. There are many custom options at daily fantasy football sites that can make a difference if you enable them.
Some examples include Punt Return TD, Each PAT Mode, every one punting yard, and many more. These can be enabled for various areas in the game, like kicking, punting, rushing, receiving, and passing. Try and learn the standard settings before you jump into the more complicated options.
Before Gameday
It's very important to get your lineup ready prior to the start of gameday. This is not that difficult. Just make sure that you have a player in every possible position because you won't be earning points for any positions you leave empty.
Be aware of the league's schedule in case you want to make last-minute changes. Also, keep an eye on this week's events to ensure that your team is optimized based on the latest statistics. Last but not least, those of you who are in a re-draft league must assess your teams weekly to make the right choices.
The Waiver Wire
In fantasy football sites, the waiver wire is a system via which you can acquire unowned players. If you need a fresh addition to your team, you can find all players who currently don't have a team. There's a good reason to keep an eye on the waiver wire.
If you need to strengthen a position or you want to substitute an underperformer, you can do so by acquiring a player listed there. It's worth staying up to date with the changes there because adjusting and optimizing your team is key to staying ahead of the competition.
Player Trades
Player trades occur between two owners of teams within your league. You can have multiple players in different positions, but you need to trade them for the same number of players in the exact same positions. To make favorable exchanges, you need to understand the value of the players you are going to trade and what you will receive in return.
You also need to be a good negotiator. To increase your chances of success, make sure to consider the other team's perspective and needs and offer them a trade that benefits them as well. To not miss on good opportunities, you should also be aware of the league's trade deadline.
Fantasy Football League Types
Fantasy football leagues come in all shapes and sizes, separated by different rules and possible strategies. You should stay wise to the available formats and differences in the gameplay in order to improve your decision-making process. What's more, some leagues cater better to the levels of engagement players want to see.
Draft
This is a very common format in fantasy football sites where contestants must select players by taking turns or by bidding on them. In a draft league, the key to success is selecting players you know can go the distance. Based on their seasonal performance, you will earn points, and your ranking will be determined.
Draft Only
When you play a draft-only league on fantasy football apps, you should know that the emphasis is entirely on the drafting process. Once your team is formed, no further transfers are allowed for the duration of the entire season. You need to anticipate the season's needs during the draft and make the right choices.
Best Ball
The league rules in Best Ball contests take away the liability to make weekly line-up changes. Your best performers for last week are auto-selected for the next. Much like with draft-only leagues, your focus must be on the draft because you can't do much throughout the season.
Custom Scoring
These types of leagues let league commissioners come up with custom scoring systems. The main changes are how much different statistics are valued. For instance, the point values for punting and touchdowns can be completely different from what you are used to with standard scoring rules.
Dynasty
A dynasty league is for participants who would like to keep their team from last season. If you like to make plans for the long run, then this is the right competition format for you. If you have an eye for prospects and an idea of how player development can go, give dynasty leagues a try.
Legal Situation – States with Legalized Fantasy Football
The legality of fantasy football sites hinges on how the gambling laws interpret the service provided by them. Most US states unite around the idea that fantasy sports, in general, are a skill-based game, which is enough to tip the scales in favor of earning a legal status.
The majority of the states in the country allow players to legally participate in daily fantasy football contests and earn prize money from that. That's not to say players and operators have free rein in the industry. There are robust regulations and norms within which daily fantasy sports is conducted.
- Alabama - Legal
- Alaska - Legal
- Arizona - Legal
- Arkansas - Legal
- California - Legal
- Colorado - Legal
- Connecticut - Legal
- Delaware - Legal
- Florida - Legal
- Georgia - Legal
- Illinois - Legal
- Indiana - Legal
- Iowa - Legal
- Kansas - Legal
- Kentucky - Legal
- Louisiana - Legal
- Maine - Legal
- Maryland - Legal
- Massachusetts - Legal
- Michigan - Legal
- Minnesota - Legal
- Mississippi - Legal
- Missouri - Legal
- Nebraska - Legal
- New Hampshire - Legal
- New Jersey - Legal
- New Mexico - Legal
- New York - Legal
- North Carolina - Legal
- North Dakota - Legal
- Ohio - Legal
- Oklahoma - Legal
- Oregon - Legal
- Pennsylvania - Legal
- Rhode Island - Legal
- South Carolina - Legal
- South Dakota - Legal
- Tennessee - Legal
- Texas - Legal
- Utah - Legal
- Vermont - Legal
- Virginia - Legal
- West Virginia - Legal
- Wisconsin - Legal
- Wyoming - Legal
- DC - Legal
Though the legal landscape is subject to change, what stays the same is fantasy sports operators needing to go through licensing procedures. Keep in mind that all states listed above have their own legal body that handles gaming licensing.
Make sure to check with your local competent authority on the matter and review what you can and can't do as a player. If you want extra assurance that you are choosing the right website to play, look at what other seals of approval it has. Responsible gambling logos and security certificates are always a good sign.
How to Pick the Best Fantasy Football Sites
When we rank the daily fantasy football sites, we look at them from the perspective of regular DFS players. To know that we've given you worthwhile options, we vet the available websites on the internet by checking their security measures, mobile apps, supported payment methods, and bonus offers.
For players who are mostly concerned with gameplay options, we check the variety of league types and scoring systems. We also see that player stats resources and expert analysis are available to users. All these features of the top fantasy football sites are important, but players are bound to prioritize different things. By adopting a holistic approach, we try to create a level playing field for readers.
Safety and Licensing
The first place we look for confirmation that a website is licensed is the footer section. It is there that a link to a valid license will be placed if such is available. Fortunately, all websites talked about here are authorized to operate in certain states. The operators of these websites fulfill the licensing criteria of the local regulators and respect the norms outlined by the following organizations.
American Gaming Association
New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement
Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
National Council on Problem Gambling
Besides legality, fantasy and DFS platforms must provide assurance that they can safely store user information and money. The best demonstration of that is possessing an SSL certificate issued by a respected cybersecurity company. We checked that this service element is also in line with industry norms.
Best Bonus Offers
New-player offers are a big appeal to those wanting to sign up to one or many DFS platforms. We made certain that all our recommended operators offer bonuses to new registrants, often in the form of free entry to tournaments.
Top Fantasy Football Apps
There are quite a few good apps for US fantasy football players who use Apple and Android devices. We've reviewed a ton of user feedback and chose those apps that properly address issues like mobile compatibility and ease of access. In testing the apps ourselves, we made sure that you can set up your account quickly and play on a mobile device without bugs or malfunctions.
Available Payment Methods
Fantasy football sites in the US offer a variety of payment options to users who deposit and for those who want to cash money out. While deposits are processed instantly, withdrawals may need a couple of days if you are using a bank account for that. Venmo and Apple Pay are proven to be the fastest of the bunch for withdrawals. It's really convenient that a small deposit of $5 is actually accepted and can qualify you for a welcome bonus.
- Apple Pay
- Bank Wire Transfer
- Visa
- Mastercard
- Discover
- PayPal
- Venmo
All banking services we listed are capable of depositing and withdrawing transactions, but at different DFS platforms, you will get different withdrawal options. Another thing to consider is the minimum withdrawal amount of $10. Bear in mind that even the best operators don't process withdrawal requests 24/7. It's recommended to deposit and withdraw by the same payment method to avoid complications.
Pros and Cons of Playing Fantasy Football
Participating in DFS contests has a lot of pros and just a measly number of cons. This is a very popular way of interacting with other sports fans online and putting sports knowledge to good use. For many, it's the financial aspect that serves as the main motivator to join a fantasy football contest.
There are many points of view and, respectively, many reasons why people do this. We've outlined the main pros and cons that we think can serve as an orientation for new players whether this can be the hobby they want or not.
- Engaging with the sport
- Strategic thinking
- Big community
- Learning opportunity
- Entertainment value
- Time-consuming formats
- Higher complexity
- Changes your perspective on sports
Responsible Gambling
Even in a hobby-like activity such as daily fantasy sports, slippery slopes can exist. In this case, it's compulsive gambling. Signs of this condition include spending more money than you can afford, neglecting other responsibilities, and being unable to stop even when you want to.
If you are experiencing any of the above, don't hesitate to contact organizations like the National Council on Problem Gambling or local groups like Gamblers Anonymous. For some, the right solution would be voluntary self-exclusion, which is also available via online means.
FAQ
If you are new to fantasy football, it's only natural to have questions. Please have a look at the next short question-and-answer segment, where we provide an insightful response to the commonly asked questions on the subject. Feel free to reach out to us if there's anything else you want to ask about our website or practices.
What are the best fantasy football sites in the USA?
Every ranking of fantasy football sites is built upon criteria like legality, bonuses, number, and variety of contests. It's fair to say that the best platforms for fantasy sports tick all these boxes. An added benefit is playing on a mobile device and enjoying the same excellent experience.
Is it legal to play online daily fantasy football in the US?
Yes, for the most part, people in the United States are allowed to enjoy the best DFS football platforms. In a small minority of states, even these renowned operators aren't licensed. Actually, this is due to the lack of any tangible regulative or legislative framework.
Can you play online fantasy football from all states?
Without a doubt, there are a lot of legal daily fantasy sites in the country simply because the majority of the states are welcoming of this type of activity. Without any legal bans, the daily fantasy community has grown into a multi-million-dollar business in states like Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Can I claim a bonus to play at fantasy football apps?
Though the majority of the fantasy football bonuses are available to new customers who deposit, there are also ones that don't require a deposit. You can claim a nice deposit match if you put a qualifying amount into your account.
What payment methods to use to play fantasy football?
Some of the most popular payment methods for that purpose are Venmo, Discover, and PayPal. Apple Pay is another handy solution fantasy sports enthusiasts are no strangers to. These three can ensure that your withdrawals are transferred in industry-topping timeframes.
Conclusion – Sign Up and Started Playing Fantasy Football
I was genuinely pleased to see these top-tier operators making their platforms comprehensible for the average sports fan. Everything about our beloved game is now much more simplified without sacrificing the beauty of the gameplay. What's more, there are complementary perks like a welcome bonus giving you free entry to competitions and beginner-friendly contests.
Blake Roberts, a Morgantown native with a background in statistics, takes the position of Editor in Chief at Betting.us. He combines his love for sports and his knowledge of statistics to produce high-quality sports betting reviews. Blake enjoys evaluating online betting sites and believes that keeping a professional mindset in gambling is of utmost importance.
We will continue keeping a sharp lookout for new and exciting offerings in the space and for up-and-coming operators who bring a fresh twist to the game we all love. Come back and check our page to see our new findings after a while.