Did you join an NFL Fantasy Football league and immediately hear discussions about PPR? Was your next question, “What is PPR?” Well, we’re here to explain PPR in fantasy football and how to use it.
What is a PPR league?
A PPR league is a fantasy football league that awards points for receptions. Usually, it’s a single point per catch, and it’s generated by the receiver. It’s designed to generate more high-scoring matchups and provide another element for league GMs to monitor and consider. It used to be unusual, but it’s become a standard for many leagues. It’s still a bit of a wildcard feature, but if PPR is used you’ll want to make sure you understand it and maximize the points you can earn from it.
What makes a player a good pick in a PPR league?
The simple answer is a player who makes a lot of catches. Duh.
But seriously, it’s especially important when it comes to position players that may excel as receivers in a way that is outside of the norm.
Start by focusing on running backs. While receivers are more valuable in PPR leagues, running backs can be sleeper picks. There are a number in the NFL who are preferred targets for their team quarterback. Coming out of the backfield, they’re a secondary or even a primary option. Remember, a screen pass is worth just as many points in a PPR league as a 40-yard catch-and-run play over the middle. Christian McCaffrey is a great example—a running back with a receiving record that makes him a solid pick in a PPR fantasy league. What’s more, his running ability can turn short passes into touchdowns. Even when his team is struggling, he’s the archetype of a running back who can be especially valuable in a PPR league.
The biggest factor to consider if the style of the offensive coordinator of a team. Does the coordinator like to utilize running backs as a receiving option? These days, nearly all do, but some rely on them more than others. Find the teams that are comfortable using running backs as pass catchers and remember that these backs are often ones that don’t rack up a ton of rushing yards.
Finally, if you’re in a PPR league and a big-time rushing running back is available, remember to consider his receiving record. There may be another back who can provide nearly as many yards on the ground while really racking up points for you through receptions.
Grab an elite tight end in a PPR fantasy football league. But not an average one.
These days, for some reason, the number of elite tight ends in the NFL is small. When it comes to players in a fantasy PPR league, it can be worth taking a Travis Kelce or a George Kittle. But after those two and maybe a couple of others, it can be tough to get real value out of the position.
So if you can get one of the very best tight ends who is a favorite target for his quarterback, go for it. But be cautious about adding a mid-level tight end if other players at other positions are available. Crunch the numbers but it’s unlikely that they won’t be outperformed by a wide receiver or a running back.
Obviously, you need quality receivers in a PPR league.
A corps of primary options at the wide receiver position will make a huge difference in a PPR league. They don’t even have to be the very best in the NFL or be part of an amazing team. In fact, some of the best choices will be a receiver who is far better than his teammates with a quarterback who, no surprise, looks for him on every pass play.
Of course, the quarterback throwing the ball makes all the difference, too. Maybe you didn’t get Josh Allen at quarterback, but you can still capitalize on his talent by picking up Stefon Diggs as a wide out.
On the other side of the decision, some people will pass on Tyreek Hill because he doesn’t have Patrick Mahomes throwing him the ball anymore. But he’s still going to get a bunch of catches no matter who is under center, and you can be sure that Miami wants to utilize him to get the most out of their investment.
What are PPR rankings?
PPR rankings assess fantasy football player value based on receptions, giving extra points for catches. They help prioritize players who accumulate receptions, adding value in PPR scoring systems.
What’s important that you choose one with a proven track record of success. The best ones not only factor in current performance, but future possibility. If you’re an active trader, it’s important to consult the right rankings regularly.
Why? Well, it’s not unusual for a star quarterback to go down with an injury, right? The backup comes in the following week and the coaching staff is apprehensive. They are likely to switch to more conservative approach—screens and short passes. Suddenly, there’s a running back who becomes a primary option as a receiver. Pick up that player and your PPR totals can quickly rise.
Find a few ranking options that you trust and are updated regularly. Scour them each week to find the players with a chance to run up PPR totals before anyone else in your league notices.
Why play in a PPR fantasy football league?
If you’ve always played in a standard format, don’t shy away from an invite into a PPR league. It only adds excitement, and this element rewards the GM who puts in the time to analyze and assess the true value of each player. That’s exciting.
Points go on the board quickly in a PPR league, so there is plenty to watch for on any Sunday afternoon, Sunday evening, Monday night, or Thursday night. With a PPR fantasy football league, it’s steady fireworks throughout every game.
PPR is like any other element of fantasy football. Crunch the numbers, turn to experts, and trust yourself to make the correct, most productive choices when you’re drafting or trading.
