“Free” Fantasy Football Can Lead Teens to Gambling Addiction
About five years ago, I was sitting at Thanksgiving talking with my nephews all under 18 when they mentioned something that caught my attention. They were doing a “brothers’ Fantasy Football draft” on DraftKings for free.
At first, it seemed harmless. After all, it wasn’t real gambling… right?
But what started as a fun Fantasy Football competition quickly opened the door to something far more dangerous. Today, two out of those three boys regularly gamble online. What began as “just Fantasy Football” turned into an introduction to real-money betting all from the same app.
How “Free” Fantasy Football Hooks Kids Early
Online gambling companies like DraftKings and FanDuel have blurred the lines between gaming and gambling. Their so-called “free” Fantasy Football contests are often a gateway normalizing gambling behavior in kids long before they can legally participate.
Children and teens learn how to draft players, follow odds, and “manage teams” but beneath the surface, they’re also learning the psychology of betting. Once they turn 18, the transition from “free” Fantasy Football to real-money gambling happens with just one tap.
What feels like harmless fun actually trains kids to think and act like gamblers.
A Casino in Your Pocket
Not long ago, if you wanted to gamble, you had to travel to Atlantic City or Las Vegas. Now, there’s a casino and a Fantasy Football league in every teenager’s pocket. With the rise of smartphones and online platforms, betting is accessible 24/7 from bedrooms, classrooms, and even family dinners.
This constant accessibility increases the risk of addiction, especially for people under 25. Research shows that young brains are more prone to impulsive behavior and risk-taking, making them especially vulnerable to gambling addictions fueled by apps disguised as Fantasy Football games.
The Real-World Consequences of Fantasy Football Gambling
For many young adults, Fantasy Football starts as entertainment but can quickly spiral into something more serious. The thrill of winning and the pressure to “get even” after losing can lead to real financial losses, emotional distress, and even addiction.
The false sense of control these apps create “I just need a better draft next week” or “I’ll win it back next season” keeps users hooked. When minors are exposed to Fantasy Football gambling before they understand the risks, the consequences can last well into adulthood.
We’re Taking Action
At Sadaka Law, we believe companies must be held accountable for targeting and exploiting young people through deceptive marketing and so-called “free” Fantasy Football contests that encourage gambling behaviors.
If you or someone you know started gambling before the age of 18 or is under 25 and has lost money to Fantasy Football or other online gambling apps you may have a case.
📞 Contact Sadaka Law today.
We’re fighting for those harmed by online Fantasy Football gambling — and we’re doing it with purpose.
