ESPN vs Yahoo Sports Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: 2025 Draft Value Guide

The 2025 NFL season is almost here. Fantasy football managers are finalizing their draft strategies. Two of the biggest platforms, ESPN and Yahoo Sports, offer different player rankings.

These differences create major value gaps for drafters. Understanding them is key to building a winning team. We analyzed both default cheat sheets to find the best values.

Key Ranking Differences by Position

The main difference lies in scoring. Yahoo Sports uses half-point PPR in its default rankings. ESPN uses full-point PPR. This changes player values significantly.

According to Associated Press analysis, running backs who catch passes are boosted on ESPN. Pure rushers hold more value on Yahoo. This impacts every round of your draft.

Quarterback rankings also show splits. Justin Fields of the Jets is ranked similarly on both sites. But his rushing upside makes him a potential steal at his current average draft position.

Wide receiver discrepancies are the most pronounced. Stars like Davante Adams see a several-spot difference between platforms. This directly affects when you should target them.

Top Sleeper Picks and Bust Alerts

Smart managers always hunt for sleepers. R.J. Harvey of the Broncos is a prime example. Yahoo ranks him as a low-end RB2. ESPN has him outside the top 25.

This makes Harvey a much better value on Yahoo. He offers three-down potential if J.K. Dobbins is injured. Target him in the middle rounds for huge upside.

Some players are overvalued. Joe Mixon of the Texans is dealing with a training camp injury. Despite this, ESPN ranks him as a top-50 back. This is far too optimistic.

Reuters notes that veteran running backs with soft-tissue injuries are high-risk. It is wise to avoid Mixon at his current cost on either platform.

Tight end is another spot for value. Mason Taylor of the Jets is unranked on ESPN. But he is listed on Yahoo. He could become a key target for Justin Fields.

This cheat sheet comparison reveals clear draft advantages. Targeting the right platform’s rankings leads to a stronger team. Always know your league’s settings before you draft.

Info at your fingertips

Why are ESPN and Yahoo rankings different?

The platforms use different default scoring systems. ESPN uses full-point PPR scoring. Yahoo Sports uses half-point PPR, which changes player values.

Which platform has better sleeper picks?

Yahoo often offers better running back values for power rushers. ESPN can provide wider receiver sleepers who see high target volume.

Is Justin Fields a good fantasy quarterback?

Yes, his ability to score points with his legs provides a high floor. He is being drafted later than his potential suggests he should be.

Who is a player to avoid in drafts?

Joe Mixon carries significant risk due to a recent injury. His current average draft position is too high for a player who may miss time.

How does PPR scoring change my strategy?

Full PPR scoring greatly increases the value of pass-catching running backs and slot receivers. It slightly devalues traditional between-the-tackles runners.

Where can I find the most accurate rankings?

Use consensus rankings from aggregators like FantasyPros. Then adjust them based on your specific league’s scoring rules.