Betting on NFL player props: Touchdowns, passing yards, and more

The NFL isn’t just America’s most-watched sport, it’s also the biggest driver of betting action across the country. While spreads and totals remain the most popular wagers, more bettors are shifting their focus to NFL player props. These bets go beyond who wins or loses, zooming in on the performance of individual players: how many touchdowns a quarterback throws, how many rushing yards a running back gains, or whether a wide receiver finds the end zone.

For many US bettors, props offer a more exciting way to engage with games. They’re less about predicting the overall outcome and more about identifying specific opportunities based on matchups, injuries, and trends. Props also let fans bet on players they follow closely, even if the game itself isn’t a marquee matchup.

Also Read: Understanding American odds vs fractional and decimal odds: A guide for US bettors

This guide breaks down how NFL player props work, which markets are most popular, and how you can use stats and situational angles to place smarter bets this season.

What are NFL player props?

Player props are wagers based on the statistical performance of individual athletes rather than team results. They can be offered as over/under lines or yes/no outcomes, depending on the sportsbook.

Examples include:

• Will Patrick Mahomes throw over or under 2.5 touchdown passes?
• Will Christian McCaffrey score a touchdown at any point in the game?
• How many receiving yards will Justin Jefferson record?

Since these bets are tied to player performance, they often attract both casual fans and sharp bettors looking for edges outside the traditional betting markets.

Popular NFL player prop markets

1. Touchdown props

• Anytime touchdown scorer: Wager on whether a player will score a touchdown at any point in the game.
• First touchdown scorer: Higher risk, higher reward—betting on which player scores the game’s first TD.
• Multiple touchdown scorer: Predicting a player to score two or more touchdowns.

Touchdown props are among the most popular NFL bets because they’re easy to follow and offer big potential payouts.

2. Passing props

• Total passing yards (over/under)
• Passing touchdowns
• Interceptions thrown
• Pass completions or attempts

Quarterback props are heavily bet, especially in primetime games. Bettors often analyze matchups against opposing secondaries, pass rush strength, and recent form.

3. Rushing props

• Total rushing yards
• Rushing attempts
• Longest rush by a player
• Rushing touchdowns

Running back usage varies by team and game script, so props tied to rushing yards or attempts can provide value when lines don’t reflect changes in workload.

4. Receiving props

• Total receiving yards
• Receptions (over/under)
• Longest reception
• Anytime touchdown scorer

These props are popular with fantasy football players, who often have deep knowledge of wide receiver and tight end usage.

5. Defensive props (offered at some sportsbooks)

• Total tackles + assists
• Sacks recorded
• Interceptions forced

Though less common, defensive props are gaining traction as bettors look for under-the-radar markets.

Also Read: Which US sportsbooks have the best live betting experience?

How to approach NFL player props strategically

1. Follow injury reports and depth charts
   Props are heavily impacted by injuries. A backup RB starting in place of an injured star may present a great rushing yards over opportunity.
2. Study matchups, not just averages
   A WR may average 80 yards per game, but against an elite cornerback or strong secondary, the under might be more likely.
3. Consider game script
   If a team is expected to lead big, rushing attempts may rise while passing attempts fall. Always account for the likely flow of the game.
4. Shop for the best line
   Sportsbooks often post different totals for the same player prop. Even a small difference (e.g., 66.5 yards vs 68.5 yards) can be huge long-term.
5. Look beyond the stars
   While stars attract most of the betting action, lesser-known players can offer value if oddsmakers misprice their workload.

FAQs

Q1: Are NFL player props legal in the US?
Yes, but availability depends on the state. Some states restrict college player props, but NFL props are widely offered on legal sportsbooks.

Q2: Which sportsbooks offer the most player props?
FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars typically post a wide range of NFL player props each week, especially for primetime games.

Q3: Are player props easier to beat than spreads?
Sometimes. Since sportsbooks focus heavily on spreads and totals, props may be less efficient markets, giving sharp bettors opportunities.

Q4: Can I include player props in parlays?
Yes. Most sportsbooks allow you to parlay props, and many now offer same-game parlays combining multiple props from one matchup.

Q5: Do props count in overtime?
Usually yes, unless otherwise stated. Check sportsbook rules, but most NFL player props include overtime stats.