Why Are Kickers Used in Fantasy Football?

Kickers are used in many fantasy leagues because field goals and extra points are meaningful parts of NFL scoring. The position adds another lineup decision based on team offense, opportunity, weather, and field-goal range.

Typical kicker scoring

Extra points commonly earn one fantasy point. Field goals may earn three points or increase in value with distance. Missed kicks can carry a penalty in some leagues.

Why the position is debated

Kicker opportunities depend heavily on game flow and coaching decisions, which can make weekly results difficult to predict. Some leagues remove kickers to reduce that volatility, while others keep them as a traditional part of the lineup.

When kickers are required, they are usually drafted late because replacements remain available and year-to-year performance is difficult to forecast. Favor a competent kicker attached to an offense likely to create repeated scoring opportunities.