How is position eligibility determined?

Position eligibility is determined by a player's past participation and information that our data provider collects. If it's determined that a player's primary position has changed, then that player gains eligibility for the new position but won't lose their original designation.

The criteria for adding position eligibility varies by sport:

NFL

Positions are determined by official rosters during the season and team media guides during the offseason and early preseason. Our data provider makes the final decision on position eligibility. We try not to change eligibility after Week 3 of the preseason unless absolutely necessary.

Eligibility for DE (defensive edge) and DT (interior lineman) in a 3-4 defense is derived from official depth charts:

  • 3-4 outside linebackers are DE
  • 3-4 defensive ends are DT

Why? Edge rushers in a 3-4 defense have stats comparable to defensive ends, not linebackers. And defensive ends in a 3-4 defense have stats comparable to defensive tackles. This makes the scoring more balanced in IDP leagues.

MLB

Position players qualify for new positions:

  • If they made at least 10 starts at the position the previous season.
  • Or if they made at least 7 starts at the position this season.

Pitchers qualify for new positions:

  • If they made at least 3 starts for SP (starting pitcher) eligibility this season.
  • And if they made at least 8 relief appearances for RP (relief pitcher) eligibility this season.

Preseason eligibility for new pitchers is determined by our data provider and team depth charts.

NBA

Our data provider makes the final decision on eligibility using a player's listed position with the NBA, past performances, depth charts and starting lineups.

  • While eligibility may update during the preseason, positions will lock 7 days prior to the start of the season.
  • A mid-season eligibility update will happen at the time of the all-star break. Position eligibility will never be removed, but additional positions may be added if players qualify.

NHL

Our data provider makes the final decision on eligibility using a player's listed position with the NHL, past performances, depth charts and starting lineups.

  • While eligibility may update during the preseason, positions will lock 7 days prior to the start of the season.
  • A mid-season eligibility update will happen at the time of the all-star break. Position eligibility will never be removed, but additional positions may be added if players qualify.