NFL players are allowed to play daily fantasy games provided the prizes are below a certain amount.
“[F]antasy football games and League or Club-sponsored skills competitions (e.g., racquetball tournaments, ‘Club Olympics’ events) for prizes generally are not considered to be gambling or a gambling-related activity, provided that there is no wagering on the outcome,” the league’s policies for players state. “NFL Personnel may not, however, accept prizes with a value in excess of Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($250) in any fantasy football game. This prohibition is intended to avoid any appearance of impropriety which may result from participation in fantasy football games by individuals perceived to have an unfair advantage due to their preferential access to information.”
The $250 rule, according to the league office, applies to all NFL and team personnel — players, coaches and executives.
The NFL Players Association’s marketing arm is signing a group licensing deal with DraftKings, meaning players will be actively marketing the product as well.