Where can I find snap counts?
Snap counts are published after each game by the NFL and by most major fantasy football and stats websites.
Snap Count
A snap count is the number of offensive or defensive plays a player is on the field for during a game.
Every play in a football game starts with a snap, and coaches track how many snaps each player takes. In fantasy football, snap counts matter because a player can only produce stats when he is on the field. A wide receiver who plays 90% of his team's offensive snaps gets far more chances to catch passes than one who plays only 40% of the time.
Savvy fantasy managers watch snap counts to spot trends before they show up in the box score. A rookie whose snap share grows week after week may be taking on a bigger role, even if his numbers have not caught up yet. On the other hand, a starter whose snaps suddenly shrink may be losing his job to injury, a timeshare, or a coaching decision.
Snap counts are also useful for evaluating running back committees and pass-catching tight ends. Two backs may split carries evenly, but the one who stays on the field in passing situations usually has more fantasy value in point-per-reception leagues.
Common questions
Is a high snap count always a good thing?
Usually, yes, because more snaps mean more chances to produce. But a player in a bad offense can play a lot and still put up weak fantasy numbers.
Related terms
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