Properly valuing players in PPR/non-PPR leagues

Point-per-reception (PPR) leagues were developed as a means to even the gap in value between running backs and wide receivers in fantasy football. With any given starting running back being far more likely to score a touchdown or even to amass high yardage totals, receivers weren't being valued equally, leading to a rush on RBs at the tops of drafts.

PPR leagues also serve to deepen the player pool of fantasy-relevant players. In allowing possession-based receivers such as Miami Dolphins WR Jarvis Landry to gain points for receptions, he could compensate for having scored only two touchdowns outside of a two-TD performance in Week 6, against the Houston Texans.

Landry ranked fourth in the league in receptions, but scored at least two fewer touchdowns than any other wide receiver in the top 27.

Here's a look at some strategies and examples of wide receivers best suited for each type of PPR-style league. Examples focus on receivers outside the top tier who hold elite value regardless of format:

Non-PPR

Considered "standard" scoring, non-PPR leagues leave the emphasis on running backs and touchdown-dependent receivers. Other than the elite WR1s in the NFL, owners should focus on running backs and even start drafting quarterbacks a little earlier. Tight ends are often a team's No. 1 or 2 red-zone target, boosting their respective ADPs.

Depth receivers come at higher risks, but red-zone threats and players with a propensity for big plays and large gains should be sought after. Focus on receivers from teams with extremely pass-heavy attacks, and those with poor defenses, as they'll be more apt to attempt longer throws when trailing in order to quickly pick up yardage and scores.

Example WRs: Mike Evans, Doug Baldwin, Michael Floyd

Half-point PPR

A happy medium, half-PPR leagues are growing in popularity. They keep the focus on the top running backs, while also opening up the player pool to a wider selection of quality receivers and pass-catching running backs who don't necessarily see goal-line work. Quarterbacks and non-elite tight ends will have lower ADPs in these leagues.

Focus on receivers in strong offenses who will move the ball and accumulate yardage. Receivers from teams with only one or two legitimate receiving threats and potentially questionable running attacks should be valued most.

​Example WRs: Demaryius Thomas, Kelvin Benjamin, Keenan Allen

Full-point PPR

Full-point PPR opens the player pool dramatically, especially at the running back position. As the NFL transforms into a passing league, some running backs are being deployed solely as pass catchers. Gone is the need for touchdown dependence, as three running backs ranked inside the top-32 reception leaders in 2015.

Landry finished tied as the WR10 in Week 14, despite being the only receiver in the top 13 to not catch a touchdown that week. He hauled in 11 receptions for 99 yards, with an average of 9.0 yards per catch and a long of 25 yards.

Beyond the top receivers, the focus should be on slot-type receivers who are used to control possession and move the chains. Receivers working with young or lower-caliber quarterbacks unwilling to attempt longer passes present excellent value.

Quarterbacks, tight ends and traditional ground-and-pound running backs should all see lower ADPs in this format

​Example WRs: Julian Edelman, Randall Cobb, Landry