Fantasy football, which began as a unique trend for die-hard football fans, has changed into a national obsession. It is no longer just a game that fans play on the side, but it has become the main reason to watch football for many people. Millions of fans now follow the “National Football League” not for the actual teams playing, but for their fantasy lineups.

“I love just being able to have fun with some of my friends,” junior Jonathan Anderson said. “It’s a great way to connect with them outside of school and gives something to talk about.”

Online fantasy football began in the early 1990s, but it gained significant traction in 1997 when it was launched on major platforms, including CBS and ESPN. In 1999, Yahoo made the game free to play, which made it more accessible for people to join and participate.

“I started to play in seventh grade with my dad and some of his friends,” senior Jayden Thompson said. “I love being able to brag to my friends about beating them the week before.”

Fantasy football unites not only life-long fans, but also casual fans in conversations about trades, injuries, and jaw-dropping last-minute wins. Whether it involves friendly trash talk, draft parties, or celebrating a big-time win, fantasy football creates moments that make friendships and keep people connected throughout the entire season. 

“I’m pretty new to fantasy football and this is only my first year in the league with my friends,” said senior Tyler Daughtry

said. “But, I’ve already seen how much my friends and I have grown closer together just by playing this game.”