Definition
A value play is a low-salary player whose expected production is higher than the cost to roster him. In DFS, the basic value formula is:
Value = projected fantasy points / (salary / 1,000)
A player priced at $4,000 with a 24-point projection has a 6.0x value score. That means the lineup gets 6 projected fantasy points for every $1,000 of salary used.
Worked Example
A running back costs $4,800 on a DFS slate and projects for 19.2 fantasy points.
19.2 / (4,800 / 1,000) = 4.0x
If another running back costs $7,200 and projects for 21.6 points:
21.6 / (7,200 / 1,000) = 3.0x
The cheaper player has the better salary-adjusted value, even though the expensive player projects for more total points.
Why It Matters
Value plays help a bettor or DFS player fit high-ceiling players into a lineup without wasting salary. The concept is most useful when projections, injury news, role changes, or mispriced salaries create a gap between cost and expected output.