ESPN Fantasy offers two primary league types: Standard Leagues and League Manager (LM) Leagues.

The main difference between these league types is who controls the league settings and rules.

Quick Comparison

Standard Leagues

Standard Leagues are public leagues with preset rules managed by ESPN.

These leagues are designed for players who want a quick and simple way to start playing without customizing league settings.

Key Characteristics

• League rules and scoring are set by ESPN

• League operations are automatically managed

• Drafts are scheduled automatically

• Roster sizes and scoring formats follow standard settings for that sport

Standard leagues are ideal for players who want a ready-to-play fantasy experience.

League Manager (LM) Leagues

League Manager leagues are custom leagues created and controlled by a player, known as the League Manager (LM).

The League Manager controls most league settings and can customize the league to suit a specific group or style of play.

LM leagues are commonly used by friends, families, coworkers, or established fantasy groups.

Customization Options

League Managers can adjust settings such as:

• Scoring format

• Roster size and lineup settings

• Draft type and draft schedule

• Waiver rules and free agency settings

• Trade rules and review process

• Playoff format

Some leagues may also use advanced features, including:

• Keeper leagues (players can be retained for future seasons)

• Offline drafts

• Other custom rule configurations

Overall League Participation Limits

Each ESPN Fantasy account can join up to 25 leagues per sport, including both Standard and League Manager leagues.

Quick Tip

If you're unsure which league type you're in, check the League Settings page.

If the league has a League Manager listed, it is a League Manager League.