Keeper Value Calculator
Compare keeper cost against ADP and get a clear “keep or drop” verdict in seconds.
How keeper value works
Keeper value is the difference between what it costs to keep a player and where they would be drafted on the open market. If you can keep a player in round 7 who would otherwise go in round 3, you have effectively gained 4 rounds of draft capital.
Most home leagues add a 1-round keeper penalty: a player drafted in round 8 last year costs round 7 to keep this year. Some leagues use a flat round, auction-based costs, or contract years. This calculator works for any round-based system — adjust the “keeper penalty” field to match.
Round-value rule of thumb
| Rounds gained vs ADP | Verdict |
|---|---|
| +3 rounds or more | Strong keeper — keep without hesitation |
| +1 to +2 rounds | Solid keeper — keep unless you have a better option at the cost |
| 0 rounds (break-even) | Coin flip — depends on positional scarcity |
| -1 round or worse | Drop — return them to the draft pool |
Keeper FAQs
How do you calculate keeper value in fantasy football?
Compare the round you would draft the player at this year (their projected ADP) against the round it costs to keep them (typically last year's round minus a 1-round penalty). If the ADP round is at least 2 rounds earlier than the keeper cost, it is a clear win.
What is a typical keeper round penalty?
Most home leagues use a 1-round bump — keep a player at their original round minus 1. Some leagues use a flat round (e.g. always round 5) or auction value carryover. Always confirm your league rules before drafting.
Should I keep a player I drafted in round 1?
Almost never, unless your league lets you keep a 1st-rounder for free or for a 1st-round pick. Keeping a 1st-rounder at the cost of your 1st means you are getting zero discount — you should re-enter the draft pool.
How many keepers should a fantasy league allow?
2–3 keepers is the sweet spot for most home leagues. It rewards good drafting and shrewd waiver pickups without turning the league into a dynasty format. More than 4 starts to feel closer to dynasty.