High-Risk/High-Reward Nathan Aydelotte, Fantasy Football Guest Writer May 21, 2012 | More
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Here are five players that based on past history with injuries, suspensions etc. that have the potential to produce big numbers in fantasy this year:

Kenny Britt, WR, Tennesee – Britt is a very talented wide receiver in the NFL. That being said he is one of the youngest receivers in the NFL and one of the least mature. He has had his fair share of off-season issues coupled with a few injuries. But when he has been healthy he has been a monster in fantasy land. Through two complete games last season he posted a 14 reception, 271 yard, three touchdown stat line and on track to be a top receiver. This season, if he can stay healthy and keep out of trouble he could be a great middle-round high-risk player.

Darren McFadden, RB, Oakland – McFadden is one of the more obvious high-risk/high-reward guys this season. He was a very solid runner last season before going down with a Lisfranc sprain and missing the last nine weeks of the season. The good news is that he is healthy and entering the season without Michael Bush, who performed very well in McFadden’s absence. The bad news is that McFadden hasn’t completed a full season since joining the NFL. McFadden should go around the fourth round and could be very risky due to his injury history, but if he stays healthy he will be a great pick for someone.

Peyton Manning, QB, Denver – Manning was the biggest offseason signing, but he also comes with a big question mark on how well his arm strength and accuracy are after several neck surgeries. Not much has to be said of Manning one of the best all-around quarterbacks for many years in the NFL, and if he can get back to form he should be worth a third- or fourth-round pick with high risk due to the neck surgeries.

Ryan Mathews, RB, San Diego – Mathews is a player who I see as a potential breakout star in fantasy this season. The only thing holding him back is his durability. Mike Tolbert has left San Diego, leaving Mathews as the top runner with little depth behind him. Mathews put up solid numbers last year even with Tolbert stealing some carries. If Mathews manages to stay healthy this season he could put up some big numbers and be worth a second- or third-round pick.

Demaryius Thomas, WR, Denver – Thomas only had three games last season where he put up more than 100 yards. Of course that was under the direction of Tim Tebow. Thomas now has Peyton Manning throwing him the ball and things are looking up for him. Of course you never know how well a player can do after only two seasons with mediocre quarterback play. He also had injuries problems all throughout his rookie season and at the beginning of last season. That being said, if he stays healthy he has the potential to produce good fantasy numbers. At this point he looks to be a Round 4 or 5 pick.