Oakland Raiders: Biggest Winners And Losers From Training Camp

Loser: Ben Heeney

Once upon a time – not all that long ago, really – Heeney was thought to possibly be the solution at the middle linebacker spot for this Raiders defense.

At six-feet, 230 pounds, he is a little undersized for the position. And given that size, as well as his relentless motor and drive, he drew a lot of comparisons to former Dolphins great Zach Thomas.

Unfortunately for Heeney and the team, his skill set wound up being closer to Miles Burris than Thomas. Good against the run, relentless, and determined – just not physically capable of doing what needs to be done to lock down the middle of the field.

It wasn’t too long after he was given the green dot that he lost it – and then lost his starting position altogether.

Serving as a rotational guy last season, Heeney missed most of the year with an injury – an injury that’s dragged on through camp this year. He started OTA’s on the NFI list and hasn’t seen the field through camp or the team’s first two games of the exhibition season.

The linebacker spot continues to be a position of weakness for this Raiders team. But guys like Marquel Lee, Jelani Jenkins, and Tyrell Adams are getting the reps while Heeney remains on the sidelines and puts him even further behind.

You can’t knock Heeney for a lack of determination and desire. The guy has heart. A ton of heart. Unfortunately, his physical capabilities can’t keep up with that heart. And although he’s a good story and a better guy, Heeney will likely find himself with a pink slip in hand come cutdown day.